Wow! What a day. 16 barges altogether in one place at one time! What
made it even more impressive was the location. I've never been to
Pin Mill before and I thoroughly enjoyed my whirlwind visit. It's
the first time I've seen both Hydrogen and Betula sailing. Hydrogen
really is a big barge and a wonderful sight. Why do they send the
bowsprit class out first on this match - is the channel too narrow
and it would cause congestion if the slower barges went first?
Wyvenhoe looked imposing with her new colours and Gladys looked
good, although I did prefer the smiling sun in her sail...

As a say a whirlwind visit -a 200 mile round trip to see them all
off and then dash home. I have no idea of the final results but the
conditions seemed perfect for all concerned. So nice to see such a
gathering of people on the shore of Buttermans Bay to watch the
barges away - unlike the start of the Passage Match!

I have (disappointing)photos to post but camera is close to being
binned in favour of a new and more powerful machine.

Finally, I have seen Melissa and took one photo before camera died
on me! How do they know that where the blackline is painted on, is
the approximate waterline?

Finally, what is (if it is, of course), the derleict barge in front
and slightly to the right of the pub? Is she the Leslie West?