THE Bridgewater Canal will play host to an armada of rowing boats at the weekend, as crews prepare to take part in the annual Trafford Head race.

Hosted by Trafford Rowing Club, the annual boat race on Saturday, February 23, will see up to 150 rowing crews arrive from across the country, with some coming from afar as Liverpool and Shrewsbury, to compete along one of the more unusual and narrow stretches of water in the rowing calendar.

The highly competitive race is held over a 3,200 metre course from Altrincham to Brooklands. Unlike the familiar summer regattas where boats strive to be first across the finish line, the winter season head races are timed competitions, with crews setting off one after another.

"This is the 30th year that the Trafford Head has been held, and we can always guarantee some good racing, as well as a fun day for the friends and families who come to cheer the competitors along,” said Richard Taylor, captain of Trafford Rowing Club.

"Places are once again filling up quickly for the head race this year, so we look forward to welcoming crews from across the country, come rain or shine."

Based in the Walton Park Sports Centre in Brooklands, Trafford Rowing club has been rowing on the Bridgewater canal for more than 40 years. With rowers of all ages and abilities, the club welcomes new members, from complete beginners to experienced oarsmen and women.

For more information about the race or Trafford Rowing Club contact Ken Ball at rowstart.traffordrc@yahoo.co.uk.