The 2012 Jubilee River Pageant

In the summer of 2012, the Hurricanes were lucky enough to be involved in the Jubilee Thames River Pageant. It was a long day with an early start, dressing the boats on Putney Quay with flags and bunting. With the boats dressed to impress, we started out downstream.

As the one of the fastest types of manned boat, we were towards the back of the pageant and had to stick to strict speed limits. Not easy with 16 race fit paddlers raring to go! After the signal to toss oars started the pageant, we made our way along the Thames.

The scenes either side were magnificent. Bunting, flags and shouts of encouragement made the drizzle seem insignificant. A quick wave from members of the Royal family was a special moment that few could beat.

After Tower Bridge, the crowds of boats seemed to dissipate and a race began with some of the other boats. With the bells of Gloriana egging us on, we raced down towards Greenwich where we were to unload the boats and get a much needed comfort break and a hot cuppa! What a day, what a memory. Long Live the Queen!

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