TWO Barry Yacht Club Sea Rowing Celtic longboat crews recently took part in the 49th Vogalonga in Venice, a 30km course around the islands in the lagoon.
On Sunday, 8th June, they joined around 2,500 craft, including Venetian rowing boats, dragon boats, kayaks, canoes, paddle boarders, two pedalos and even boats with dogs as passengers. Crews travel to this stunning event from all over Europe and further afield.
▶ Barry rowers set out for Grand Canal
The start was in the Grand Canal, St Mark’s Square, signalled by a cannon shot, and the Barry crews set off towards Sant’ Erasmo. After12 kilometres, they reached the island of Burano, noted for its colourfully decorated buildings. Following a short refreshment stop they set off back to the main island of Venice.
Crew member paul Fisher said: “With the sun blazing down and a brisk headwind, after 10km of rowing we made it to the entrance to the Cannaregio canal. There was a short pause here as we made our way through the bottleneck into the canal, to be faced with an indescribable traffic jam of boats being marshalled under the first bridge. As there was no room for oars, we swapped them for paddles. Eventually we were selected to pass and divers in the water pulled us clear.
“A huge Welsh flag on the bow brought many supportive shouts of Wales, Barry and the occasional ‘What’s Occurring’. At one point we heard the tune of ‘Hen Wlad Fy Nhadau’ coming from one of the upper windows along the Cannaregio. We certainly felt seen.
“Back into rowing mode again, we slowly made our way down to join the Grand Canal, passing under the Rialto Bridge and on to the finish just before St Mark’s Square to collect our medals and certificates.
“Our thanks go to the vision and determination of James Simpson and Charlotte Hopkins and the road crew who made a round trip of 2,400 miles towing the boats there and back to make this unique adventure possible.
“For the 12 crew members, it was a once in a lifetime experience but who knows what happens next year? It will be the 50th anniversary of the Vogalonga after all!”
Anyone wanting to try this exciting and friendly sport, Barry Yacht Club Sea Rowing are holding an Open Day on Saturday, 18th July. More information will be posted on Facebook.
Photos by BYC Sea Rowers (unless otherwise stated).
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