20.03.2023
The Boat Race: Miles ahead
PLA deputy harbour master Miles Featherstone (pictured), from Maidstone, is looking forward to overseeing our support for this year’s Boat Race on 26 March.
“Almost every year since 1856, Oxford and Cambridge university crews have competed in a rowing race on the Thames, from Putney to Mortlake – the world famous Tideway course.
“Nowadays known as simply as ‘The Boat Race’, it’s one of the biggest events in the river calendar, with viewers around the globe tuning in to watch.
“This year, I have the great privilege of leading the PLA’s involvement in the event.
“The safety of all involved – including the spectators – is always a priority for us.
“On the eve of the big day, colleagues are up at the crack of dawn, aboard our river maintenance vessel Driftwood III.
“Their main job is to install temporary moorings for the ‘stake boats’, two PLA vessels that are used to keep the race boats in position on the starting line, ahead of the starting sound.
“Another team has the task of physically holding all the competitors’ boats in place from the stake boats. With the world watching, it can be a nerve-wracking experience.
Our Richard Brand on the start line with the Oxford Women's crew last year
“As usual, we will also be providing two umpire boats, carrying the officials who oversee fair play.
“From 10am, our harbour launch teams will be afloat at either end of the four-mile course, to implement the closure of the river to other vessels.
“I will be on board a command and control launch, liaising with the police, coastguard and the RNLI, as well as the race organisers.
“Last year, the race made a welcome return to the Thames, after a two-year absence, linked to the pandemic.
“It was great to have the event back where it belongs.
“Boat Race day on the Tideway is always one to remember.”
To find out where you can get active on the river, visit activethames.co.uk
