Rowing, cake and Jammie Dodgers.

Tuesday 21st March promised grey skies and drizzle. However, there were some delightful sunny periods as Richard, David, John, Tony and Barry set off from Barton in the direction of Wayford Bridge. Dredgers positioned just past the windmill blocked the way! Plan B was called for. Quick as a flash, Richard decided to cox his crew toward the Broads Museum at Stalham. This proved to be a sheltered spot for refreshments. The cake, brought along by Tony, was delicious and the Jammie Dodgers boosted energy for the return row.

With David at stroke, the crew maintained a good rhythm and pace against the wind. Barton was reached before grey clouds assembled once again. A great row was had by all. Many thanks to Richard for coxing throughout the morning.

Barton Outing: Saturday March 4th.

Rosemary has sent in this detailed description of a Saturday morning outing. Thanks, Rosemary.

“The arrival at Barton Turf did not look too promising but it did not deter John, Robin, Rosemary, Jenny and Rob. Besides, Rob had work to do before we could start.   Standing finished, we set off in fine weather and little wind.   Robin and Rosemary were having their first row for what seemed like a year.   Rosemary coxed out and Jenny back. Both had to negotiate Broads Authority large machinery which was fortunately not moving.   We were threatened with a possible one hour delay which, fortunately, did not happen. Up the Ant where Wayford Bridge presented no problems in either direction. The swans joined us for the tea break.  John was persuaded to stroke us home and he did so in fine style. Wonderful to be out and no rain or drizzle once we were under way but, sadly, very little wild life.”

Bluejacket Returns To The Carnser.

Thanks to Anta and Humphrey for towing Bluejacket from Barrie’s workshop today, Saturday 4th March. She looks great as a result of many Crabbers’ efforts at painting and varnishing, ably orchestrated by Barrie.

Catherine, Alan, Diana, Simon and Barry were also in attendance to ensure that Bluejacket is now well placed and secure in the dinghy park. Rob has kindly fashioned some new thole pins and kabes so that Blakeney outings can take place. Many thanks to John R for delivering these to the skiff.

Finally, Blakeney Marine Services are again storing the road trailer. Much appreciated, Carl.

And the winner is ……..

After two months of fierce competition on the River Ant, and in sad memory of the Gumboot Tree the winners of this years Robin Combe Challenge are …….

After much careful cosideration the prize this year goes to …….

Jenny, Rob, Tom H, Tony B, and John Rawlinson

I am afraid there is only one prize so you will have to share it! Well done!

The Boot Tree is no longer!

Thanks to Richard A for passing on some very disturbing news to club members. Read on…

“Today’s row was a miserable one. Not only the mizzling rain, or the Broads Authority blocking the river. I am saddened to report that our start point for the Robin Combe Trophy has been cut down. Our crew today had two minutes silence in memory of the lovely folly.”

Sprucing Up Bluejacket.

Saturday 25th February: the team was hard at work making Bluejacket look beautiful for the new Blakeney season. She is due to be moved back to the Carnser on Saturday 4th March. Please check the calendar for times when assistance will be needed.

Many thanks to Barrie B once again.

The St Valentine’s Day Row.

February 14th began with Barton Turf shrouded in heavy fog. However, the intrepid Crabbers keenly anticipated the annual St Valentine’s Day row. Hoi Larntan, newly spruced up, was looking immaculate for her first date of the season at Barton. David, Sue, Francoise, Diana and Barry weren’t looking bad either.

The beauty of the row was stunning. David set a steady stroke and Wayford Bridge was soon reached. Before long, the crew was faced with the narrow waterway to Dilham. Paddles were the order of the day. Great fun! Drifting through Dilham was an absolute treat. A quick spin and lunch was the next prospect.

The Wayford Bridge Inn provided the setting for a very convivial and well deserved break. Meanwhile Hoi Larntan awaited the crew, moored by the bridge.

The final leg of the return journey passed pleasantly with all agreeing that this was not the moment for the Robin Combe Challenge. At Cox’s Boatyard, Hoi Larntan was sponged down and stored ready for the next outing. It was a great day on the water. Thanks to all. Thanks also to Richard Andrews for the idea of the “Browmantic Row.” Sorry you couldn’t come along, bro.

Changing The Boats.

February 13th: Hoi Larntan is now ready to go at Barton Turf. Bluejacket is now in Barrie B’s workshop for its annual makeover. Many thanks to Barrie for donating his expertise and workspace yet again. Thanks, of course, to Humphrey for all the towing.

The other event of the morning was a short but enjoyable outing to Gaye’s Staithe involving Tom, Richard, John, Diana and Barry. After the trip it was all hands on to effect the changeover. A busy but fun morning! The swans and one heron enjoyed the Crabbers’ company.

The Finishing Touches.

Many thanks to all Crabbers who helped to complete the Hoi Larntan paintwork on the morning of Saturday 11th February. She will be back on the water very soon.

A Misty Morning Row.

Alan C has sent in a beautiful gallery of photographs for you to enjoy. His words conjure up a great 8th February outing.

“It was a great row this morning.  Started off cold and misty, very atmospheric, but ended with us having to take some layers off!  Rob, Tony and Alan took turns coxing, stroke and third thwart, whilst Jenny and Anta were in the bow and second thwart.  As you can see from the photos we decided to go across Barton Broad to How Hill.  On the outward leg we had to avoid an enormous barge, whilst on the homeward leg, the Broad’s Police gave us a cheery wave.”