Reading Rivermead 10k 2026

Thameside is a two-race canoe marathon series organized by Reading Canoe Club, taking place on the Kennet & Avon Canal, the River Kennet, and the River Thames near Reading. The initial race is a 12-mile time trial from Aldermaston Bridge to Reading Canoe Club. Participants navigate the canal, merge with the Kennet, pass through Reading's town centre, then turn left onto the Thames, paddling upstream past Caversham Lock. The subsequent race covers 19 miles downstream from Reading to Marlow, commencing behind Reading Rowing Club by Rivermead and concluding at Longridge Outdoor Adventure Centre. The races focus on practical, club-level marathon paddling, not a closed-course event. The waterways remain open to other users, boats undergo buoyancy checks, and competitors are required to assist anyone in difficulty. Thameside 1 includes 12 portages within its shorter distance, while Thameside 2 features 8 portages on the longer Reading-to-Marlow course. Categories cater to juniors, seniors, veterans, ladies, mixed crews, and junior/veteran K2 boats, alongside K1, K2, C1, and C2 divisions. Organizers reserve the right to divert to an alternative Newbury-to-Wokingham course if weather or river conditions necessitate. Basic amenities are provided post-race: light refreshments, food, showers, and changing facilities are part of the entry.