32nd Thames Traditional Boat Rally
The Thames Traditional Boat Rally is, simply put, a huge 2-day display of the very finest-looking traditional boats one can see. Back in 1977, a few keen boaters had the idea of a rally to encourage owners of traditional craft to cherish and restore them to all their former glory, as well as to continue to use them upon the river. The Rally was to be both a meeting and a showcase for owners and craft, at one of the most beautiful spots on the River Thames, with various trophies and prizes awarded. Happily, it is still going, and becomes more spectacular every year.
The first formal Rally was held in July of 1978 at Fawley Meadows, Henley-on-Thames. Since then the original aims of the Rally have been met in full and the number of traditional craft seen in daily use, on the Thames and elsewhere, grows year by year. Restorations range from minor repair and cosmetic work to ruined hulks which have been completely restored to their former glory (as with "Alaska" above). Some are the products of highly skilled craftsmen in the Thames boatyards, and some are the results of many, many months of loving work by enthusiastic amateurs. Many fine examples of both will be on view at the Rally.
For more details click here.