Until 1839, the little town of Henley-on-Thames was known primarily as a glass-producing port town. During a town hall meeting that year, Captain Edmund Gardiner proposed holding a regatta, since the growing popularity of rowing could benefit the town. Today, the rowing competition is a world-class competition that draws oarsmen from around the world for five days each summer, with thousands of spectators taking part in its traditions. How did it officially become a "royal" regatta in 1851? Discuss (http://forum.thefreedictionary.com/postst25274_The-Henley-Regatta-Is-Established-in-England--1839-.aspx)
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