The Great River Race sees boats of all shapes and sizes racing through London in a 21-mile long marathon, setting off along a stretch of the Thames.

Racing across the capital
The race sees sailing crews from all over the world compete head-to-head in a marathon sail through London. Open to all traditional craft, the Great River Race is one of the most prestigious events of its kind, attracting thousands of competitors and literally hundreds of boats. Participants race through London in a 21 mile long course from Greenwich to Richmond, described as the marathon of the Thames.

International racing
By virtue of its internationally renowned status the event attracts sailing crews from across the globe to London, from as wide a range of countries as Holland, Ireland, Sweden, Croatia, the US and France, as well as the UK. This year a wide selection of trophies are up for grabs and competition is definitely hotting up.

Boats glorious boats
More than just a race through London, the Great River Race is a rare chance to see a collection of boats tearing through the Thames. And it isn’t only modern racing boats that take part either. In the past the event has attracted a handful of weird and wonderful vessels, including a Greek galley, Chinese dragon boats, Hawaiian war canoes, Viking longboats and the world’s oldest racing rowing boat, built over a century ago.

Boat watching along the Thames
You’ll be hard-pressed to keep up with the Great River Race from start to finish unless taking part yourself, but there are a number of points along the route to watch key sections from and cheer the racers on. Places to watch include Kew Bridge, Putney Bridge, Westminster Bridge and Island Gardens.

The Great River Race takes place on Saturday 15th September 2012, starting at 10.30am at London Docklands, Greenwich.

For more information on the race, the registration details and the full route, click on the link below.

Great River Race Official Site

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