Region: London
Type: Regional
Format: Sprint
Other Details:
Distance: ~500m
River Grade & Hazards: The Harefield Wild Water Race takes place on Grade 1–2 water, with conditions that can change depending on levels and flow from Harefield Weir. The course includes a fast-moving section immediately below the weir, a tight 90-degree bend under the road bridge, and a sprint finish to the white footbridge. Hanging slalom gates may also be present as part of the site infrastructure, and competitors should be aware of occasional powered craft using the canal.
Suitable for Novice: Yes
Safety Cover: Yes
Safety Officer: Rick Moore
Safeguarding Officer: Joanna Lechocka
Start: Coppermill Lock
Finish: White Footbridge
Race Start: 11:00 AM
Check-in Time: 10:00 AM
Briefing Time: 10:30 AM
Additional Info: Harefield is back!

Online Entires will open shortly.

After making waves at the Lee Valley, Cardington, Shepperton, and Thamesmead, Wild Water Racing charges across London for the next chapter. This time, we’re heading to Harefield for Fury at the Weir: a fast, exciting sprint where speed meets moving water and every second counts.

This isn’t just another race. It’s an opportunity to try something new, challenge yourself against the clock and be part of a growing Wild Water Racing community. Whether you’re stepping onto the start line for the first time, chasing your first medal or looking to sharpen your speed, there’s a place for you here.

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THE RACE

Starting at Coppermill Lock, the Harefield course follows approximately 500 metres of the Grand Union Canal, passing under the road bridge before reaching the white footbridge.

The highlight is the weir, where waves and moving water add an exciting challenge to the course. With a mix of canal paddling and a taste of white water, it’s a great opportunity for newcomers to try Wild Water Racing and for experienced paddlers to test their speed against the clock.

– Distance: Approximately 500 metres
– Estimated race time: 3–6 minutes
– Format: Sprint time trial
– Runs: Multiple attempts welcome
– Results: Your fastest run counts towards your event result

Paddlers can make multiple runs, with their two fastest times submitted to the Wild Water Racing Committee.

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ALL CRAFT WELCOME

You don’t need to own a specialist racing boat or have years of competition experience to get involved.

Bring your own boat or make use of the craft available to borrow on the day, including Wild Water Racers, Canoes (C1/C2s), GPs and Slalom boats.

Whether you want to try a Wild Water Racer for the first time, take on the course in your usual boat or experience racing on moving water, there’s an opportunity to get involved.

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C2 WILD WATER RACERS: DO YOU ACCEPT THE CHALLENGE?

C2 Wild Water Racers are welcome and actively encouraged!

If you’ve never raced a C2 before, this is your chance to give it a go. Grab a partner, find your rhythm and experience the speed, teamwork and excitement of racing a canoe down moving water.

Whether you’re an established crew or trying something different for the first time, we want to see you on the start line.

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TEAM SPRINT CHALLENGE

THREE PADDLERS. ONE MISSION. BEAT THE CLOCK.

Fancy taking on something different?

Assemble your dream team and enter the Team Sprint Challenge. Bring two teammates, coordinate your efforts and see what you can achieve together.

Whether you’re racing with clubmates, friends or a crew of C2 paddlers, this is all about teamwork, speed and a healthy dose of competition.

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WHO CAN ENTER?

Everyone. From complete beginners to experienced competitors.

Fury at the Weir is designed to welcome paddlers of all ages and abilities, giving newcomers the opportunity to experience competition while allowing established racers to test their speed.

Never entered a Wild Water Race before? Come and give it a go.

Already racing? Bring your clubmates, challenge yourself and help us make Harefield a fantastic day on the water.

You don’t have to be the fastest paddler on the river to be part of the action. Every race is an opportunity to learn, improve and discover what you’re capable of.

BE PART OF THE NEXT CHAPTER

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PARKING & ACCESS

Parking: Troy Lake, Rickmansworth Sailing Club, Troy Lake, Rickmansworth Sailing Club, WD3 9YB.

Please park here and make your way onto the water. From Troy Lake, paddle down the Troy Cut to the Grand Union Canal, turn left and follow the canal to the start line at Coppermill Lock.

Boat Drop-Off: Coy Carp Pub, Copper Mill Lane, Harefield, UB9 6HZ.

Please note that pub parking is for customers only and is monitored by ANPR, so please do not leave your vehicle there unless you are using the pub in accordance with its parking terms.

REFUEL AT THE COY CARP

Need a warm drink after your race, or something to eat while you watch the action? The Coy Carp Pub is right next door to the event, serving teas, coffees, cakes and food, with lovely views overlooking the canal and river. It’s an ideal spot to warm up, refuel and enjoy the racing from the bank.

Fees: Senior (£): 7 U18 (£): 7
Entries On The Day: Late entries on the day are accepted
Late Entry Surcharge (£): 0
Single Event Membership: Yes, Single Event Membership entry is accepted
Payment Details: Entry Fee: £7 per paddler (includes all classes – race as much as you like!)
Payment: Cash or card on the day
Online Entries Close: 14/11/2026 23:45