Poling on the Thames (UK)

[samb]

Last weekend was the Wargrave and Shiplake regatta on the river Thames. It's a family friendly and relaxed event unlike the Henley Royal regatta which happens a couple of miles down stream.
Poling in canoes is an event which always produces some drama. As the river is around 12 feet deep, traditional Thames punt poles are used. These are about 20 feet long made of aluminium. Poling is done both as doubles and solo. At the high levels it is very competitive and at novice level completing the course is a major achievement. Maybe next year I'll take part

 

[Steve in Idaho]

20' poles....holy carp!

 

[Chip]

“Kayak” stroking a 20’ pole might be faster than push poling. That’s a lot of pole.

 

[Alan Gage]

The boats all look pretty similar. Are there hull restrictions?

Alan

 

[Steve in Idaho]

“Kayak” stroking a 20’ pole might be faster than push poling. That’s a lot of pole.

Especially if that 20' pole comes with 8' arm spread.

 

[samb]

“Kayak” stroking a 20’ pole might be faster than push poling. That’s a lot of pole.

That's against the rules!

 

[samb]

The boats all look pretty similar. Are there hull restrictions?

Alan

All canoes are heavy fibreglass beasts off the same mould. You can choose red, white or green.

 

[samb]

Some are more skilled than others!

 

[Riffle-Raff]

Tandem poling! Nice! Looks like everyone involved had a great time.

Thank you for sharing

 

[Glenn MacGrady]

Looks like fun. Thank for the posting, @samb. Is there some cultural, secret society, prison escape, or DSM-5 reason for the red and white costumes of that tandem couple?

 

[samb]

Prizes are awarded for fancy dress . . . they could be from MI5, but it's best not to ask in case they are.
The two in black in the video are definitely witches.