On the Thames
Rowing traditions of the Watermen and Lightermen
Rowing, in its diverse forms, stands as the quintessential sport of the Watermen and Lightermen of the Thames, delineated by the following classifications:
Fine Boat Racing
Fine Boat Racing involves sculling or rowing in lightweight racing shells equipped with high-tech oars and gear, designed for elite and international competitions. Numerous rowing clubs on both the tidal and upper reaches of the Thames compete at various levels, with the pinnacle being the Henley Royal Regatta. Many Watermen actively participate in these clubs, showcasing their prowess at elite and Olympic levels. The Watermen’s Company annually invites its apprentices for a sculling weekend at the prestigious Leander Club in Henley.
Barge Driving
Barge Driving entails racing cargo barges using long sweep-oars, navigating with the tide flow, crewed by Freemen and apprentices. Originating from the Lightermen trade in Tudor times, this sport involves rowing heavy Punt class cargo barges, showcasing skills such as mid-race turning and flat pick-ups. Spectators have the unique opportunity to travel with the races aboard pleasure boats, providing a distinctive perspective on these events.
Traditional Rowing
Fixed Seat Rowing or traditional rowing caters to all ages and abilities, utilising traditional boats steered by a coxswain and accommodating passengers. This form of rowing harks back to the wager races of the 16th and 17th centuries when men earned their livelihoods carrying passengers along the Thames. The Thames Traditional Rowing Association (TTRA) was established to make more events of this type of boat, and TTRA rules mandate vessels to have a minimum of four oars, devoid of outriggers or sliding seats, with a coxswain and at least one passenger.
Rowing has long been at the heart of the traditions of the Watermen and Lightermen of the River Thames. As a company sport, it serves to honour centuries of maritime heritage as well as building camaraderie, discipline, and physical fitness among apprentices.
Rooted in the legacy of river workers who navigated and transported goods along the Thames, rowing offers apprentices a unique connection to the history and spirit of the river. Beyond its historical significance, it is a sport that embodies teamwork, resilience, and precision—values essential to the craft of watermanship.
Rowing also presents an opportunity for apprentices to engage in friendly competition, fostering bonds with their peers while developing the physical and mental strength needed for success on and off the water.
Whether apprentices are new to rowing or looking to refine their skills, this sport is an integral part of their journey with the Watermen and Lightermen.
Apprentices have the chance to have regular training sessions at our base in east London, as well as one to one training. Each year an intensive sculling residential course is held at Leader Club in Henley.
All rowing training sessions are booked via https://watermenscompany.myclubhouse.co.uk/
To get in touch with our coaching team – [email protected]
The Doggett’s Coat and Badge Wager
The Doggett’s Coat and Badge Wager is an iconic race, deeply rooted in the traditions of the Watermen and Lightermen of the River Thames. This historic event stands as the oldest continuous rowing race globally, with a tradition that has persisted since 1715. Each year, up to six apprentice watermen compete fiercely for the prestigious Doggett’s Coat and Badge prize.
The course
Spanning a challenging course of 4 miles and 5 furlongs (7.44 km) on the River Thames, the race starts upstream from London Bridge and concludes at Cadogan Pier, Chelsea. The route passes under a total of eleven bridges, adding an extra layer of complexity to this demanding competition.
When does it take place?
Originally, the race took place on 1st August against the outgoing tide, mirroring the conditions faced by watermen ferrying passengers across the Thames. Over time, the event has evolved to accommodate spectators, moving to September and coinciding with the incoming tide. Modern single sculling boats are now used, allowing for a more accessible and visually engaging experience for onlookers.
Winning the race
The significance of winning the Doggett’s Coat and Badge extends beyond the accolade itself. The winner is awarded a traditional red coat adorned with a silver badge, featuring the horse of the House of Hanover and the word “Liberty” to commemorate the accession of George I to the throne. Additionally, all participants completing the course receive a miniature Doggett’s Badge for their lapel, presented in a ceremony at Watermen’s Hall. Monetary prizes are generously provided by the Fishmongers’ Company to the rowing clubs of the participants.
While winning the Doggett’s Coat and Badge was historically instrumental in attracting trade to talented watermen, today, the race remains a symbol of immense prestige within the watermen’s community, showcasing skill, determination, and a deep connection to the rich heritage of the River Thames.
The Tudor Pull
The Tudor Pull is a ceremonial and historical rowing event that pays tribute to the traditional rowing practices along the River Thames. Organised by the Thames Traditional Rowing Association (TTRA), this event is specifically tailored for Thames Watermen’s Cutters which serve as the escort for the Queen’s row barge, ‘Gloriana,’ on the journey from Hampton Court Palace to the Tower of London.
The History
During this special Tudor Pull, the rowers embarked on a 30-mile rowing journey, reenacting the historical route that watermen traversed in the 16th and 17th centuries. The event took on added significance as it included the delivery of a ‘Stela’ by Gloriana to the Governor of the Tower for safekeeping.