Kwasi went to Chertsey and Shepperton Regatta at Dumpsey Meadow. The Meadow, just downstream from Chertsey Bridge, runs along a stretch of the Thames that is wonderfully picturesque and undeveloped.
In an article for the Surrey Herald & News, Kwasi commented:
The regatta, which was first held 161 years ago, included skiff rowing and punting races. Clubs from up and down the Thames took part, including – from Spelthorne – Sunbury Skiff and Punting Club, which was set up in November 2010. Their arrival on the scene is an exciting development for the Borough; the Club won some races and is going from strength to strength. This Saturday, we will have the Sunbury Regatta, which has taken place since 1877.
There were plenty of close races and the atmosphere on the riverbank was terrific. Spectators cheered the competitors on, chatted and enjoyed a drink or two.
The whole event is organised by volunteers who laid the course, erected marquees, organised the race schedule and marshalled the races.
There is something special about events like these; they represent all that is good about sport. The Regatta brought people together and competitors took part out of a love for rowing and punting.
On a larger scale, the Olympics embody the best things about sport too. Of course there is corporate involvement and the Games are no longer all amateur. At its core though, the Olympics are a great celebration of what sport is about: determination, spirit, taking part and winning for pride, not riches. The London Olympics are showing how sport has the power to unite and inspire people.
People keep talking about the legacy of London 2012. That has to mean that the fever generated by the Games is harnessed to increase participation in sport. With this in mind, local sport needs to be encouraged and supported at every opportunity.