Being off the water.

Nick’s off the water experience.

On my daily cycle rides during the pandemic lock down I have frequently traveled along the Lancaster Canal both north and south of Lancaster.

Every time I go under this bridge that carries the new Bay Gateway road over the Lancaster Canal towards Hest Bank I can’t help but think of this video.

In 2016 Paddlers for Life Windermere paddlers working in relay teams paddled a dragon boat thirty one miles from Owd Nell’s at Bilsborrow to Tewitfield along the Lancaster Canal.

I was off the water because I cycled the full distance along the canal towpath as official support for first aid if needed and photography along with two other cyclists giving support.

What a memorable day watching different teams paddle this beautiful boat through some beautiful landscapes and watching the reactions of canal users both on and off the water as they were surprised by the sighting of a dragon boat on the Lancaster Canal. For many paddlers this was an ‘on the water’ experience but many other paddlers were off the water providing logistic support and encouragement.

More here  and in this gallery.

Add your recollections in the comments section below.