On Saturday 7th August, the annual Swale smack and barge match was held, with the Edith May pleased to be in attendance. Having given the barge a quick scrub and a paint up, we sailed round for the match on the Friday and joined the fleet accumulating in the river off Harty Ferry.
Unfortunately, due to a technicality, the Edith May was unable to enter the race. However, her crew undeterred, we let the other barges get away before setting about chasing the pack. After a gentle start, with a light following breeze, the barge really started to pick up and go once the wind freshened off Herne Bay, she was able to catch the other barges, showing her infamous speed once again. As she turned up the narrow channel of the Swale and the wind freshened, we dropped the staysail and left the serious racing to the Repertor, Decima and Reminder, who were pushing hard for the win.
A great day was had by all on board and we look forward to the next time we can race with the fleet.
P.S. – If anyone was able to take photos of the barge racing, we would love to see them.
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