Action-packed second day of 2026 ThruDark DW

It has been a jam-packed second day here at the 2026 Thrudark Devizes to Westminster International Canoe Race!

Today saw the start of the Senior Doubles race, with crews setting off from Devizes throughout the course of the day. We will have a better idea of the running order for that late into the night, but for today we have been kept entertained by the Stages Race.

Due to the forecast of high winds for today, paddlers were set off from Newbury earlier than usual, but they did not let this get to them. They all demonstrated grit and determination in tough times, especially as the weather picked up. Aldermaston Bridge caused issues for some, but they didn’t let this stop them, and continued on towards Reading.

Today has been a day filled with team spirit and friendly faces as many crews chatted to each other whilst out on the water, creating new-found friendships. Many of our paddlers have shown their spirit through colour, whether that is dyed hair or matching hats, they have certainly shown everyone their dedication to their team and themselves. It’s great to see!

Our Junior Doubles top three remain the same as yesterday, with Barrett and Brown (108) recording a time of 11 hours 26 minutes into Marlow. For the senior singles, Harte (716) recorded a phenomenal time of 9 hours 38 minutes, putting him in good stead for tomorrow. In the veteran-juniors Webb and Williams (55) recorded a great time of 10 hours 50 minutes which I am sure they will want to keep up tomorrow. Despite the wind, our SUPs have made excellent progress today with Emily King out in front.

Tomorrow promises to be another busy day, as the Senior Doubles make their way to the finish at Westminster and the Stages paddlers make their way up to Teddington on their longest day so far.