The Three Rivers Race
Europe's toughest inland sailing race, run by Horning Sailing Club
The race course covers over 50 miles, starting and finishing at Horning Sailing Club and comprising 3 different rivers: the Bure, Ant and Thurne. During the race our competitors must navigate three bridges at Potter Heigham and Acle. The lowering of masts is the ultimate test of skill and makes for fantastic viewing throughout the race. From their individual start each competitor has up to 24 hours to complete the course. Many sail through the night and returning for full English breakfast some time in the early morning!
The start of the race is the best time for spectators to view the fleet in one concentrated mass, waiting to be started in groups of around 10 boats upstream of the start line at Horning Sailing Club. The first start is usually at 11am and it takes over an hour to get the whole fleet started. Once the fleet has reached Thurne Mouth, yachts can usually be seen heading off in both directions, and this decision is probably the most critical one of the whole race, dependant as it is on wind, tide and boat performance.
Entries for the 2026 Three Rivers Race are OPEN!
The race will take place Saturday 30th - Sunday 31st May, 2026
Entry forms available here