NEWS ARCHIVE

Pewsey to Newbury

RHS paddlers set for Devizes to Westminster Canoe Marathon 2016

The Royal Hospital School paddlers recently took part in their last big race from Pewsey to Newbury and a final qualifier on the Chelmer before they all leap into the Thames at Easter to take part in the 125 mile Devizes to Westminster Canoe Marathon.

This endurance race starts in Devizes in Wiltshire and finishes just downstream of Westminster Bridge, opposite the Houses of Parliament and it has been held annually over the Easter Weekend since 1948. The 125 mile-long route is peppered with 77 portages when paddlers will need to lift their boats (and themselves) out of the water, run around the obstruction such as weir, dam or lock, and promptly get back into their craft and the river to continue on their way. The first 52 miles are along the Kennet and Avon Canal to Reading, the next 55 miles are on the River Thames to Teddington and the final 17 mile section is on the tidal portion of the Thames.

According to the official DW website “The race is a severe test of skill, physical and mental stamina and planning which produces a memorable sense of achievement for those successfully completing it”. For more information go to http://www.dwrace.org.uk.

Best of luck to all involved!