Schools' Head of the River Race

When the race was first held in 1946 the course was shorter than at present, from above Hammersmith Bridge to the current finishing post, a distance of approximately 1.75 miles. The start was moved to Chiswick Bridge in 2000, resulting in a course almost the length of the full Boat Race

After the course was lengthened, the Schools' Head continued to offer a shorter course (from London Corinthian Sailing Club above Hammermsith Bridge) for smaller boats, such as J15 4s, J15 B 8's, and Maiden 4s; however, in 2009 this was changed by C.D. Riches, the event's manager.

Eton College have won the race a total of 14 times, followed by Emanuel School with 11 wins (including an unprecedented eight in nine years from 1962-1970), Hampton School with 9 and St Paul's with 9. In addition to these, the headship in 2000 was shared in an unprecedented three-way tie between Hampton, St Paul's and Canford School.

The race is the largest head race of the winter season by junior crews. It attracts around 300 crews each year. Composite crews, drawn from more than one club or school, are not permitted.

All categories race the same course.

In 2012, the J4- and WJ4- events were introduced.[n 1]

In 2013, the Mix 4x[n 2] event was introduced to the race.

In 2017, the course was considerably shortened on the day, retaining the usual start line but finishing at the bandstand shortly after Barnes bridge.[2]

In 2020, the race was cancelled due to the COVID-19 pandemic and the restrictions on 'non-essential' contact.[3]

In 2021, as a result of the ongoing pandemic, a 'virtual' Schools' Head event was run with crews submitting GPS recordings on their home stretches of water.[4]