The last weekend in September graced us with some fantastic weather, and thankfully Chris Partridge had called what could be the last HBBR meeting of the season at the Horse & Jockey at the head of The Hamble.
He reported on his trip here Rowing for Pleasure.
He reported on his trip here Rowing for Pleasure.
Its best to leave Swanwick an hour or so before high water to get the benefit f the flood, and to ensure there is enough clearance beneath the three bridges. As it was we left it a bit late. I just made it with about six inches to spare.
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| Photo Tim O'Conner |
Chris and Ruth Waite came along in Polly Wee about five minutes behind me, and they reported having to heel the boat over to get under the road bridge.
Tim didn't have any such problems in Zelva. He just cruised around looking very relaxed.
The Hamble River Rowers were out for a brisk trip to the pub and came storming past.
The HBBR contingent took a more relaxed approach. Chatting as we went.
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| Photo Tim O'Conner |
The return trip provided a good sail as a bit of breeze picked up here and there. The run down under the bridges was "Interesting" as the ebb was running fast and there were some big standing waves below the railway and road bridges. Motor boats coming up-river against the flow and tide need to stick to the middle of the channel and keep the momentum on to avoid veering into the piers but they don't seem to appreciate that the little dinghy coming down stream, needs the middle of the channel to clear the mast under the arch, has almost no steerage or brakes other than that provided by the oars, and the skipper is craning over his shoulder to see where he's going.
A few not so new nautical hails were required.
Gerrouthefeckinwayyouidiot.
Composure regained we recovered our boats and bid each a hearty farewell.
1 comment:
you have to watch the motorway bridge, the road is banked so there's more height upstream by a big amount - I speak from experience- sorry i missed you all (again)
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