Chiswick Pier Canoe Club and Chiswick Pier Trust had a remarkably busy boat race weekend.
On Saturday three of our paddlers took advantage of the great weather and the river opening, between Fridays practice day and the actual race day on Sunday. They diligently picked their way between practicing rowers and made the return trip to Teddington. A short refreshment break at The Anglers, next to Teddington Weir, made the most of the trip.
Sunday saw record numbers of the public and club members taking advantage of one of the best boat race views on the river.
A bar, refreshments and food stalls turned the pier and pier house into a great destination from which to watch and celebrate the historic boat race.
A few of our club members checked the security of the pontoon moorings then joined the houseboat owners for their annual boat party. There was great music, lots of beer, wine, pizza, singing and dancing.
Further afield we had club members join Wight Expeditions and some of the Putney Club to continue the Sea Kayak Training sessions.
The focus of the weekend was navigation, trip planning and conducting crossings from the mainland to the Island and return. Weather conditions were kind for the wild camp, with an opportunity to test camping gear after the winter break and a great BBQ on the Saturday evening. The return paddle to Hurst Castle gave us a challenging head wind and a fair bit of chop. Great experience!
