Round Canvey Race

Benfleet Yacht Club’s Coastal Rowers are an active group of enthusiasts – the club has a number and variety of fixed- and sliding-seat coastal rowing craft available for all members to use, and many compete in major events in other parts of the UK as well as the near continent. Keeping the action close to home, Benfleet Yacht Club organises the annual Round Canvey Race, a rowing, row/sail or paddle event that covers a 14.5-mile circuit of the entire coast of Canvey Island. This annual open event was established in 2010 and an eclectic mix of vessels have competed to date: fixed-seat and sliding-seat row boats, surf skis, kayaks, outrigger canoes and a variety of sailing dinghies. The current time record is one hour 44 minutes – an average speed of 7.2 knots. This year’s Round Canvey Race is due to take place on July 22. The course includes four tidal barrages, there are bridges to pass under – so masts will come down – and all craft must be suitable for deep water and potentially rough conditions. Free overnight camping is available at Benfleet Yacht Club, which is on the northern shore of Canvey Island – an evening BBQ and bar add to the fun ashore. •www.benfleetyachtclub.org