The Great River Race 2008

Olympic rowing gold medal winner Steve Williams will fire the cannon at 14.05 hours on Saturday, September 13th, to start the Great River Race, London’s 22 mile marathon for traditional boats from Ham in Surrey to London Docklands.

Steve, a member of the coxless four which triumphed in the nail-biting Beijing final that gripped the nation, will set off the first of 290 entries to be rowed and paddled by over 2,000 out-and-out regular racers, fun and recreational boaters from all over the UK and around the world.

The 2008 UK Traditional Boat Champions will carry away the Challenge Trophy of The Company of Watermen & Lightermen of the River Thames.  Others will simply be pleased to finish the event and many are raising money for charity.

Steve Williams said, ‘I am delighted to start The Great River Race, an event which encourages rowing among all age groups and abilities.  But I can’t say I’m totally unbiased as I have friends taking part.’

For more information about the race and approximate timings for bridge sightings go to www.greatriverrace.co.uk  You can also follow the race on the internet.

Stuart Wolff, The Great River Race