The Thames Sailing Barge Match recalls a time when thousands of barges plied the River Thames, transporting cargo under red ocher sails.
GRAVESEND, England — One of the oldest sailing races in the world is the America’s Cup. Right behind is the Thames Sailing Barge Match. The America’s Cup competitors race $10 million space-age hydrofoils that are so fast their crews are required to wear helmets. The Thames barges are like 100-year-old “bathtubs with sails,” according to crew members, who drink tea during the race.
While they were “in trade,” they hauled brick, cement, timber, sand, coal, grain and gunpowder. They ran barley to London’s brewers and wheat to its bakers. When the city’s transport was dominated by horse and carriage, the barges brought in straw and hauled away manure — in what was known as “hay up, dung down” trade.
The barges were well-matched. Racing in three classes, they fought each other for the lead. The two barges in the coasting class, Gladys and Pudge, kept up a day-long tacking duel.
Brasil Últimas Notícias, Brasil Manchetes
Similar News:Você também pode ler notícias semelhantes a esta que coletamos de outras fontes de notícias.
EXCLUSIVE: Dior Goes Gray for Fall Men’s CampaignThe soft silhouettes of Dior’s fall men’s collection are presented against a moody gray backdrop — Christian Dior’s signature color — in the images for the fall men’s campaign.
Consulte Mais informação »
Julian Sands' Cause Of Death 'Undetermined,' Coroner Says In Final RulingThe British actor's remains were found last month after he went missing in January.
Consulte Mais informação »
The race to save baby birds in Phoenix’s record heatA wildlife rehabilitation center in Phoenix has been a frenzy of activity during the record-breaking run of extreme temperatures.
Consulte Mais informação »
Defending Champ Jonas Vingegaard Sips Champagne After Tour de France VictoryThe 26-year-old Dane sipped champagne after racing down the Champs-Élysées and crossing the line 7 minutes and 29 seconds ahead of his next closest rival.
Consulte Mais informação »