Meet the Edinburgh crew taking on the Great River Race for Euan’s Guide

05/09/2025

We’re absolutely thrilled to share that six incredible rowers from Edinburgh will be taking on The Great River Race on the Thames this September 2025 - all while raising vital funds for Euan’s Guide.

A marathon on water

Dubbed London’s river marathon, the Great River Race covers an epic 21.6 miles, passing under 28 bridges as crews race from Millwall in the east to Richmond in the west.

What started back in 1988 with just 61 boats has grown into an international celebration of rowing, with 300 teams and more than 2,500 competitors taking part from across the globe.

The race is all about fixed-seat boats, and while some crews are in it to win it, many others bring fancy dress, big smiles, and charity fundraising along for the ride. It’s one of the most exciting, fun-filled rowing events in Europe.

Meet Eastern – a club that rows with purpose

The Edinburgh crew will be representing the Eastern Amateur Coastal Rowing Club, known fondly as ‘Eastern’. This volunteer-run club is celebrating its 10th anniversary this year, and one crew member is also celebrating with a milestone birthday! What better way to mark the occasion than taking on one of the UK’s biggest rowing challenges?

The team will race in a St Ayles skiff, a beautiful traditional boat lovingly built by the local community. It’s a perfect symbol of what Eastern stands for: teamwork, tradition, and tenacity.

A photo of the rowing team up close holding a Euan's Guide logo prop and wearing teal Euan's Guide t shirts. They're holding their oars upright and behind them is the rowing boat, blue skies and the beach and sea

Rowing for a cause

The crew isn’t just racing for glory – we’re honoured that they’re rowing to raise funds for Euan’s Guide and support our mission to make it easier, safer and more rewarding for disabled people, their friends, families and carers to find and visit accessible places.

Every pound raised will help us grow our community, share life-changing accessibility reviews, and help disabled people find great places to go with confidence.

How you can support the crew

Cheer them on! Join them on 20 September 2025 in London or follow the race updates online.
Donate - Support their fundraising efforts on JustGiving.
Spread the word! Share this story and help us reach even more supporters!

We’re so grateful to the amazing crew at Eastern. You’re inspiring us all, and we’ll be cheering you on every step - or stroke! - of the way.

Tags: blog, events, fundraising, london, edinburgh, disabled access, disabled access information, euan's guide, 2025