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Sun shines on Lake District rowing competition

Jason Arunn MurugesuNorth East and Cumbria
News imageSimon Bamforth Direct shot of eight different boats in a lake being rowed. The water is clear. There are two orange buoys in the middle of the shot. Simon Bamforth
Competitors race the length of Derwentwater, which is approximately 1.86 miles (3km)

More than 300 rowers have taken in a relaunched boat race in the Lake District.

Lakeland Rowing Club (RC) said its annual race on Derwentwater had attracted 142 crews from 23 rowing clubs across northern England and Scotland, with competitors ranging in age from 15 to 81.

The event was started more than 150 years ago by Victorian rowing enthusiasts. Before 2023, when the competition was resurrected by the rowing club, the last race had been held in 1870.

Lakeland RC media officer Victoria Gibson said it had been a cold day but the sun was out with the water "flat, calm and absolutely beautiful".

News imageIan Gordon Shot of individuals standing on the edge of a lake with mountains in the background. The water is bright blue as well as the sky. People are wearing thick jackets and hats. Ian Gordon
The Victorian-era race was resumed in 2023
News imageSimon Bamforth Multiple boats on a lake being rowed by people. The lake is clear and there is a mountain and trees in the background. Simon Bamforth
Victoria Gibson said the water was flat and calm in the morning
News imageIan Gordon People walking while carrying a long yellow rowing boat on their shoulders. They are in shorts. In the background is a large brick building with windows. Onlookers walk past. Ian Gordon
The race was started by Victorian rowing enthusiasts
News imageSimon Bamforth Side short of long rowing boats being rowed on the water. There are two orange buoys to the right of the picture. There are mountains in the background. The water is clear. Simon Bamforth
More than 300 rowers took part in the race
News imageIan Gordon Side shot of a single yellow rowing boat on the water. There are multiple people rowing it. Behind them are trees and hills which are reflected in the crystal clear water. There is a yellow and orange buoy in the photo. Ian Gordon
The youngest rower to take part was 15 years old

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