Port of London Challenge

Founded in 1996 by Betty Boothroyd, the former Speaker of the House of Commons, the Port of London Challenge showcases the growing sport of Waterman's Cutter racing. Traditionally, Thames Waterman's Cutters are 34 feet long and 4ft 6inc wide, have fixed seats for up to six rowers and a canopy at the back with room for a cox and passengers. Often, races require for the cutters to be decked out in ceremonial livery, complete with historical regalia and flags. Starting at 7pm, the Port of London Challenge is raced over a 4.4-mile course from HQS Wellington on the Embankment to Chelsea Harbour. The cutters are crewed by six rowers and a cox and, in keeping with tradition, a passenger must be carried - although in this event the boats are not fitted with canopies. The first race back in 1996 featured just five crews but the growing popularity of the event means the race now has to have staggered starts where cutters are set off in waves, meaning each crew is racing both against those in their starting rank, but also against the clock. For more information please visit www.traditionalrowing.com.