Chaos at the Three Rivers Race
The astonishing and often chaotic Navigators Three Rivers Race along the narrow rivers of the Norfolk Broads rivers takes place this year over the weekend of the 2nd and 3rd June.
Running over 50 miles along the Rivers Bure, Ant and Thurne, it makes for an entertaining spectator event with a large variety of boats ranging from Wayfarer dinghies and classic local half-deckers to Thames A Raters and classic gaff-rigged racers built specially for The Broads.
Competitors have to navigate tight broads and open dykes to round large buoys while avoiding other competitors and hire boats travelling in all directions.
Because The Broads are tidal, competitors must also use paddles and poles to power themselves under the three low bridges, and the struggle to lower and raise masts and pass under the bridges at the same time as other competitors frequently provides much of the entertainment.
Many locals and visitors make a day of it by watching the spectacle from bridges, pubs and gardens along the route; perhaps one of the best vantage points is the bridge at Potter Heigham, which is the tightest along the route.
The staggered starts begin at 12pm on June 2nd and continue through the afternoon. There is a 24-hour time limit to complete the course, which may be challenging, as the wind often dies during the evening.
For the 12th consecutive year, leisure boating insurance specialists Navigators & General is sponsoring the race, and will field two crews competing in two classic broads cruisers, America and Palace.
The race is organised by Horning Sailing Club. Further details of the event can be obtained from Colin Facey from Woods Dyke Boat Yard Ltd, tel 01692 630461, email enquiries@woodsdyke-boatyard.co.uk .
The Broads-related links at intheboatshed.net:
â—Where does the romance of old boats spring from?
â—Pete’s guide to the Norfolk Broads
â—Some photos for a busy evening…
â—Zoe, the oldest hire boat on The Broads
â—Three shots of the wherry White Moth
â—A catalogue drops through the door sets me thinking about the summer