Our racing squads are coached by Peter Haining MBE and are designed for rowers who want to train with purpose and race competitively. We understand that most of our athletes are balancing rowing with real‑life commitments, so the land‑based elements of the programme—weights, erg sessions, core and flexibility—can be done around when suits you.
Get in touch to find out more at captain@sonsrowing.com
The training programme typically includes 4-6 sessions across Tuesday and Thursday evenings and Saturday and Sunday mornings. They combine strength work, ergometer training, cross‑training and, of course, water time. On‑water sessions take place from the club and look for a regular level of commitment: Saturday and Sunday mornings year‑round, plus weekday evening outings in the summer.
Goal‑setting is led by Peter and our captains, ensuring the programme supports both personal ambition and collective performance.
Alongside the classic Tideway/UK regattas and head races, we regularly send crews to Henley Qualifiers and major international events such as the World Rowing Masters Regatta and the Heineken Roeivierkamp in Amsterdam. We also run an annual international training camp—recent locations include Banyoles, Spain.
We welcome experienced rowers who want structured, competitive training in one of the best rowing locations in London. The squad maintains a friendly, supportive atmosphere where performance matters, but work and family commitments are understood and respected.
Coxes are highly valued members of the club. Everyone here understands just how essential they are - not only for racing success, but also for safe and confident navigation on the Tideway.
Whether you’ve coxed a lot, a little or are completely new to it, you’re welcome to join us at any time of year. We’ll support you as you build the skills needed to steer safely on the Thames and to feel at home on one of the world’s most iconic rowing stretches.
If you’re an experienced cox, you’ll have the opportunity to work with our racing crews at head races and regattas. Your contribution can genuinely be the difference between winning and losing.
find out more at captain@sonsrowing.com
The men's Masters group has a core of highly experienced members, now competing in Mas E, F, G and possibly even H - depending on who is available. The group has been successful in racing - winning World Masters golds; European Masters golds; and Mas F 4x gold at The British Rowing Masters Championship in 2023, 2024 and 2025. Most members have their own singles, and combine into pairs and quads, and sometimes and eight or a coxless four. They also regularly show the youngsters how its really done at the Heineken Roeivierkamp in Amsterdam!
Masters train on the water with the rest of the squads on Saturday and Sunday mornings at 8 am, with extra sessions before work and in the evenings when there are important races coming up. Individual members join in the racing squad training, or make their own arrangements.
Royal Navy Rowing at Sons
We’re proud to have partnered with the Men’s race squad at Royal Navy Rowing, providing them with a home on the Tideway for training and racing preparation. Our stretch of river, and setup make Sons of the Thames an ideal base for high‑performance crews looking for reliable access to the water in London.
We also offer special membership rates for Royal Navy Rowing athletes based in London who want to join a club with the right blend of commitment, enjoyment, and normal life. It’s a place where you can train seriously, race hard, and still balance the demands of work, service, and everything else that matters.
Whether you’re looking for a regular training home, a supportive squad environment, or simply a club that understands the realities of competitive rowing, you’ll find a warm welcome here.