Beams of light broke through the clouds and conjured up a beautiful evening on an otherwise rather rainy day by the river in Henley-on-Thames! The sun arrived just in time for Christ Church Boat Club Society’s Pimm’s party. Following an afternoon of watching world-class racing at Henley Royal Regatta, friends old and new gathered on the picnic lawn to reunite and reminisce over a refreshing drink or two. It was wonderful to catch up with old crew mates; no matter how many years go by, bonds forged in a boat seem to last. It was also great to chat to new friends of the Boat Club, especially those who were experiencing the regatta for the first time. What a joy to share such a special sporting event with other members and friends of the Christ Church community! Henley Royal Regatta 2024 might go down in history as one of the wettest on record, but as the sun was setting on Saturday 6 July, spirits were far from dampened. I look forward to the same again in 2025 … but next year, I’m wearing my wellingtons!