Doggett's Coat and Badge Wager
9th July 2024The Company of Watermen and Lightermen run the oldest competitive rowing race in the world, the Doggett's Coat and Badge Wager, which has been running since 1715. As a former oarsman myself, I have always wanted to see the event, which is over a 5 mile 7 furlong course, from Tower bridge to the Albert Bridge, with the competitors in lightweight single sculling boats.
This year the Watermen organised a boat trip on the Elizabethan paddle steamer, to follow the race and enjoy drinks and lunch whilst we were on the boat. Carolyn and I joined a motley crew of other masters and consorts, together with Watermen and previous winners of the Doggetts Coat and Badge, dressed in their red outifts with silver shields on their left shoulders.
Unfortunately, it was a very rainy and grey day, which must have made life very unconformatble for the two competitors, and meant that the roof of the paddle steamer could not be taken off, keeping us nice and dry. However, Sheriff Bronek Masojada and some other dignataries were priviliged to go on a small boat, closer to the action, which did not have a roof, so they got rather wet. Special treatment indeed!
However, we had a very enjoyable lunch on a table with the Master and Consorts of the Wheelwrights, Fan Makers and Fletchers, before watching the winner and runner up being presented with a flowers and bottles of champagne. Apparently the presentation of the Doggett's Red coat and badge to the winner takes place at a ceremony later in the year!
A fine day on the river despite the weather!