Day 4

Early race day against Durham A. The Princeton 2V beat Durham B yesterday. Debbie and I took the very short taxi ride, just to get caught in a 15 minute traffic jam across the towns only bridge. There are two American "Stewards" (very exclusive, only higher membership is HRH King Charles who is the Patron). One steward with Princeton ties got us in to the special enclosure to watch the race, the only seats where you can see down the entire mile+ course. The boys rowed hard but lost by less than a length. Small consolation, this was the fastest race of the day.

The total event is expected to attract 120,000 people. Even with the national crews absent to train for the Olympics, this is still the mecca of rowing. The houses on the other side of the river are actually boathouses - Noah is hoping to get access so he can work out.

After the race Debbie and I shared a breakfast table with a British couple slightly older, John and Sue. Talking politics, the whole world seems to be getting more conservative. Big concern about immigrants here.

After 45 minutes of mourning we found the boys changed into their blazers and ties sitting in the "Pimms" tent. Parent after parent bought rounds and the next part of the adventure begins. Half the teams are out, which means the night life will get progressively more active. Probably the leanest, most athletic group of people on earth at the moment. Also saw the Cornell crew, see the picture with red blazers and particularly the hat band in the middle.

Noah's boat of 9 alone had 5 sets of parents. Princeton travels well.

Cambridge University hosting the boys for dinner tonight.

Debbie and I made it to a small village - Morton on Marsh. Accomodations underwhelming, cycling the countryside tomorrow. Weather is overcast and wet, will do our best.

Apparently the pub we are at - The Bell Inn- was frequented by JRR Tolkien.

Until tomorrow.... Czytaj więcej