A day on the Thames

A few days ago, I joined a few classmates on a little excursion to see the Henley Regatta. It's essentially a crew competition on the Thames that lasts for several days. We went on Wednesday, the first day of the regatta.

After class, we headed to Paddington (like the bear) Station to catch the train out of London. After switching trains in Twydon and about 45 minutes later, we were in the small and picturesque village of Henley. After making our way to the banks of the Thames, we stopped for a drink at one of the many bars lining the course. I had a Pimms, a mixed drink including Pimms gin liqueur, lemon-flavored soda water, and an assortment of orange (or lemon or lime) and cucumber slices. It was pretty good, especially considering that I'm not a big fan of gin. The drink didn't really even taste like alcohol at all. But maybe it was a bit watered down, as suggested by an Irishman we met at the regatta.

We walked up and down the Thames, stopping occasionally to peruse the small shops and bars along the river's edge. It's hard to actually watch any of the races; really, you only get to see a brief snippet of the race as the boats pass your point of view. And the finish line can only be viewed from the expensive seats. Which brings me to my next point. People get dressed up for this thing - big time. Think of the spectators at a polo match and you'll start to get an idea of what folks where to the regatta. Women were decked out in sundresses and funny hats (big bows, feathers, etc.) -- the kind you see at department stores and wonder who would actually buy them. Guys wore khakis, ties, and blazers. Some of the blazers were just your standard navy blue, frequently with the crest on the left breast (reminiscent of prep school uniforms). But some of the blazers had to be seen to be believed. Stripes and loud colors were commonplace.

The weather was beautiful (unlike the last few days, which have been the typical gray and rainy London days), and we had a great time. I have no idea which boats won (only that Harvard's team lost), but I was there more for the experience and atmosphere than anything else. Pictures here.