Eton Dorney

Competitors and spectators planning to attend the rowing events for the 2012 Olympics are looking forward to their visit to the Eton College Rowing Centre. Located at Dorney Lake, the facility has a variety of high-quality features, including a warm-up lane, clean water, and beautiful scenery. Although the centre is not completely finished, Eton Dorney is already receiving rave reviews.

The Story of Eton Dorney

Eton College began the seven-year planning stage for the world-class rowing venue in 1989. The actual construction began in 1996 and it would take an additional ten years to complete the 2 200m x 140m man-made lake. Alongside the eight competition lanes, the centre features an additional 80m warm-up lane that is virtually unaffected by the wind.

To prepare the rowing centre for the 2012 games, the Olympic Committee chipped in and added a finishing tower. The committee will also be adding a few other improvements to Eton Dorney in the near future in order to make it easier for athletes. These will include improvements to the warm-up area as well as alterations to accommodate the canoe and kayak competitions.

What truly sets this rowing venue apart is its stunning location. The gorgeous landscape contains a pleasant variety of plants and shrubs. There is a nature conservation area, an arboretum, and a park located right there as well. There is a gymnasium and clubhouse on-site for the athletes and an interpretation centre is planned for the site as well. This will ensure that Eton Dorney will remain one of the best training and competition facilities in the world after the Olympics are complete.

The Events

Several events for the 2012 Summer Olympics and Paralympics are planned for Eton Dorney. Up to 30,000 spectators will be able to enjoy the rowing competition that involves around 550 athletes competing for a total of 14 gold medals. The flatwater canoeing and kayaking has almost 250 athletes squaring off for the 12 available gold medals. Paralympic towing will be held at Eton Dorney shortly after the completion of the Olympics. This event will include approximately 108 Paralympians and four gold prizes.

Traveling to Eton Dorney

Eton Downey can be found only a short distance from Windsor Castle 25 miles from the city of London. Because the venue is just off the M4 motorway, it is easily reached by car. One of the best ways to arrive at the venue is on foot or bicycle. A pedestrian bridge is planned that will connect the rowing centre with Bray on the opposite side of the River Thames. There will also be a number of walking paths and bridges to interconnect the facility with the surrounding communities. Plans are in the works to increase access to the grounds through public transportation systems as well.

Eton Dorney is one of the best rowing centres in the world. Not only does it have state-of- the-art facilities, but also its beautiful grounds and additional facilities will make it a favourite spot for competitors and visitors alike. The Eton College Rowing Centre will be a valuable addition to the 2012 Olympic Games and the world.