Montford Challenge Row 2026 – Event Announcement & Booking Details

Shropshire Adventure Rowing Club (SARC) proudly announces the return of the Montford Challenge Row (North Pole Challenge), taking place on Saturday, 21st March 2026. This thrilling two‑stage rowing challenge follows the twists and turns of the River Severn, starting and finishing in historic Shrewsbury.

About the Race

The 2026 event consists of a two‑stage time trial open to:

Celtic longboats
Pembroke longboats
Teifi skiffs or other fixed‑seat tubs (by application)

Coxes may swap between stages. No passengers permitted.

Stage 1 – Upstream Challenge

An 8‑mile upstream time trial begins at Pengwern Rowing Club in central Shrewsbury and ends at the River Severn’s most northerly point, known as the North Pole. Crews then immediately turn and enjoy a downstream rest row to the Stage 2 starting area.

Stage 2 – The Downstream Dash

A final downstream race back to Pengwern. The exact start location will be revealed on race day.

Combined stage times determine overall winners.

Race Categories

Seniors
Vets
Supa Vets
Ladies
Mixed
Fastest Pembroke

Entry Fees & Booking

£12.50 per person
£60 per longboat
Includes post‑race food.
Bookings close: 16th March 2026

Online Entry & Payment:
https://form.jotform.com/260452215790050

Venue Information

Pengwern Boat Club
Kingsland, Shrewsbury, Shropshire SY3 7BD

Facilities include:

Breakfast rolls, hot & cold drinks (morning)
Post‑race food & bar
Male & female changing rooms
Hot showers

Race Day Timetable

(Subject to river conditions)

Time	Activity
09:00–10:15	Arrival & unload boats
09:00–11:00	Boat preparation
09:30–11:00	Registration
09:30–12:00	Breakfast & drinks available
11:15	Race briefing
11:30	Stage 1 Time Trial – Start
14:00	Stage 2 Time Trial – Start
13:00 onward	Pengwern Bar open
14:30–16:15	Crews finish, retrieve boats, pack up
15:30–17:00	Race food & bar
17:00	Race presentation
18:00 onward	Bar, social, DJ, dancing

Friday Arrivals

Boat & trailer parking available on Friday and Saturday nights. Secure oar storage is provided—please notify organisers in advance (ideal arrival between 5–7 pm).