Women’s Regatta elects new chair

Henley Women’s Regatta (HWR) has elected Mandy Calvert as its new chair, replacing Naomi Ashcroft who stepped down after the 2026 regatta.

Mandy competed at the inaugural regatta in 1988 and has served as deputy chair for the past three years. She was elected as chair at the HWR Annual General Meeting held on 11 October 2026.

“It is an enormous privilege to lead such an inspiring women’s sporting event – one that means so much to our competitors, spectators and partners,” she said. “I am incredibly excited to work with our brilliant team of volunteers as we plan and deliver HWR in 2027 and beyond, including a special celebration of the regatta’s 40th birthday in 2028. I would also like to thank Naomi Ashcroft who has done such a great job as chair over the past three years.”

Mandy’s connection with rowing – and with HWR – runs deep. She learned to row at Churchill College, Cambridge, winning the women’s Lightweight Boat Race in 1985. She won club fours at the inaugural HWR in 1988 and went on to win both open quads and lightweight double sculls in 1994. After competing for Agecroft during her senior rowing career, she is now a member of City of
Sheffield RC and continues to race regularly in masters events.

Off the water, Mandy brings extensive senior leadership and board experience from a career spanning life sciences, manufacturing and technology. She has run several ultramarathons including the iconic Ultra Tour Mont Blanc and was the race director for the Macclesfield Running Festival for over 10 years.

Mandy becomes the seventh chair in Henley Women’s Regatta’s history. Founding chairman Chris Aistrop was succeeded by Margaret Adams (1989-1997), Diane Graham (1998–2012),
Miriam Luke (2013-2021), Naomi Riches (2022-2023) and Naomi Ashcroft (2024-2026).

Henley Women’s Regatta takes place between 18-20 June 2027. For more information, visit www.hwr.org.uk.