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Ditton Skiff & Punting Club |
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Written by Administrator
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Tuesday, 06 June 2006 |
Ditton Skiff & Punting Club
Skiff and punting racing has been a feature of the local river since the late 1800s when owners of self propelled pleasure boats wished to undertake something more sporting than recreational boating. The first Hampton Court and Dittons Regatta started in 1888 with competitors from local sports clubs.
However, it was not until 1923, following a meeting of interested persons in Long Ditton Parish Hall that the local club was formed. Initially from a site in Ferry Road the club ran on one set of single and double skiffs, all leased from Turks, as were a number of punts.
The club has competed at all levels since its formation, except during the War when competition ceased but remained open for members on leave from the armed forces. Immediately after the War the club purchased a unique four-sculler skiff that was built at the turn of the century and the venerable "sandy" still gives good service today.
Due to finance and an over cautious attitude by members in the late 1950s all the boats were suffering from a lack of maintenance. Over the next three years all members set to and renovated all the boats, not only did this give a boost to morale of the members but undoubtedly saved "sandy" from being a serious candidate for bonfire night.
The club has continued to flourish from a number of sites. In 1993 the club moved into purpose built premises in Albany Reach that are arguably the best in the Sport. Throughout its life, Dittons have had their share of champions, providing a club for all levels of participation to recreational members, all appreciating and enjoying the hypnotic charms of the River Thames.
Ditton Skiff & Punting Club Albany Reach, Queens Road. T:020 8398 1642
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