Great River Race 16th September 2023
Published 16:47 on 27 Sep 2023
Its been likened to the London Marathon on the water, with 228 boats and crews, drawn from all over including Holland, Belgium, Spain, USA, Canada and even New Zealand. Closer to home, 2 crews from Itchenor, made the journey to London to row the 21.6 miles from Millwall to Richmond. The event is designed specifically for fixed-seat boats, so our Solent Galley Bembridge and our Celtic Longboat Iccanore, were representing the Club.
The course hugs the northside of the Thames with boats passing under 28 bridges - the first being Tower Bridge at the 3 ¼ mile mark and the last being Richmond Bridge at the 20mile mark. The weather on the day of the race was sunny and warm - ideal rowing conditions, but it was thirsty work! The choppy waters of the Thames and some robust rowing styles of other boats, made for exciting and challenging conditions. Thankfully, no damage to boats or crews (save for blistered hands and sore muscles) with both crews putting in very creditable performances.
Based on overall times (with the first and last boats over the line in 2hr 6minutes and 4hrs 11 minutes), Bembridge crossed the line in 2hrs 42 minutes, with Iccanore finishing in 3hrs 16 minutes placing them 47th and 187th respectively.
A few well earned drinks helped ease the post race aches and pains, whilst also catching up with other clubs, comparing war wounds and making plans for future Regattas. The day was a great success and all congratulations to the crews on their efforts.
Many thanks also to all the support given by members in planning, organisation, driving, lifting, shifting and all manner of other tasks!
As ever well bang the drum for Rowing at Itchenor do come along and give it a try, whether its for a social outing or to participate against other clubs, there is something for everyone!
Last updated 13:27 on 26 January 2024
