The Paddler Autumn/Fall issue 2017

M A K I N G
HISTORY
Story: Paul Hyman Photos: Paul Hyman and Allistair Swinsco
The tide is high as first light comes up over the river Thames. The river is
already a bustle with the watermen of today, a hundred years of heritage can
be felt in the air as countless numbers of rowing club athletes set about
their Saturday morning ritual of training.
There’s a real feel of competitive sportsmanship about the place as boats and
skulls move up and down the river, coaches and cox-men calling out with
strict voices. The Thames is a river that has always bought life to the city of
London, ebbing and flowing, giving this great city its life blood to thrive. It has
many traditions and sports come and go, but Father Thames can now add to
its sporting history stand up paddling (SUP).
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