The Boat Race Company said it has appointed Iain Edmondson as a non-executive director with a remit to support the event strategy as The Boat Race approaches the 100th anniversary of the first Women’s Race in 2027, and the 200th anniversary of the first Men’s Race in 2029.

Edmondson’s career in the major events industry has involved specialising in planning for, implementing and measuring the long-term benefits from major sporting and cultural events.

For 14 years, Edmondson played a role in delivering a legacy from the London 2012 Olympic and Paralympic Games, initially as a member of the bid team in 2004 and then as the head of major events for London & Partners; the growth agency for London established by the Mayor of London in 2011.

At London & Partners, Edmondson’s work included creating the concept for, and leading the development of Ride London. He also led the foundation of the International Association of Event Hosts.

Commenting on his appointment, Edmondson said, “As a passionate advocate for sport and culture in one of the world’s top event cities, I’m honoured to join the governing board of the historic event. I look forward to helping The Boat Race retain its status as an iconic fixture in the city’s annual event calendar, as it moves into its next century.”

The Boat Race Company chair Siobhan Cassidy added, “We are delighted Iain has agreed to join as our new director. Iain’s experience with London 2012 will obviously be very relevant and valuable for us, given our location. As we approach two key anniversaries for The Boat Race, the range of events and projects Iain has been involved with will bring invaluable expertise in planning for those milestones as well as the next phase of the event’s future. We know Iain will help us cement all the wider benefits for London and the UK that flow from The Boat Race.”

The Boat Race 2025 will take place on 13 April, with the 79th Women’s Boat Race to be followed shortly after by the 170th Men’s Boat Race. Some 200,000 spectators are expected to line the banks of the River Thames to watch the event, which is free to attend and broadcast live on the BBC, with millions more watching globally.

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