Annual Southwark Cyclists Pre-Boat Race Ride

Please register for rides on Eventbrite so we can limit numbers, link:   https://www.eventbrite.co.uk/e/annual-southwark-cyclists-pre-boat-race-ride-tickets-1312225324269

Jamie leading again, this year with a 9.30 start. Here are his usual very complete instructions.

Coordinating Instructions and Timings. Riders will meet at 09.30am on Saturday 12th April at the bottom of the steps outside and under the Waterloo Station Victory Arch that is 50 yards up on the right from where York Road meets Mepham Street and Cab Road just before the road bridge. A short safety briefing will be given at 09.30am. The ride should arrive back at Waterloo Station before 2.00pm.

Mission To cycle the iconic 4.25 mile course of the 170th Oxford & Cambridge Boat Race up the Middlesex bank of the Thames from the Race start line at Putney embankment to the finish post at Chiswick Bridge by Mortlake. The race first started in 1845 and is always held on a flood tide with crews rowing with the current. This years televised Boat race itself takes place the following day, Sunday 13th April 2025 with the Women’s Race starting at 1.21pm followed by the Men’s Race starting at 2.21pm.

Route This is a circular route that involves some great river views and enjoyable cycling in stages for about 20 miles in all. The route out is mostly along quieter roads but the river paths are only suitable for competent rider abilities. The return route is predominantly on cycle lanes, via Hammersmith, Kensington Gardens, Buckingham Palace and back to Waterloo.

Rations and Water There will be a coffee stop with loos prior to us reaching the race start line at Putney. We will stop for lunch near the race finish at Chiswick Bridge and riders are advised to bring their own picnic lunch.

Checks and Equipment Riders are urged to pre-check their bikes e.g. A = Air in tyres, B = Brakes, C= Chain & gears etc. The river route can be gusty thus Riders are advised to bring: a warm fleece, waterproof top/trousers.

Riders of all ages are welcome on Healthy Rides but under 18s must be accompanied by a responsible adult. Same for “adults at risk”. Always give way to pedestrians and to other cyclists so all path users feel safe.  If you cannot make a ride, please cancel so that someone else can take the place.  This ride is part of a regular programme of Saturday rides, more information at https://southwarkcyclists.org.uk/healthy-rides/.

Note. Ride reports, often with photos and route maps, are posted to the Southwark Cyclists web site, yearly index at https://southwarkcyclists.org.uk/healthy-rides/.  Future/provisional ride ideas can be viewed on our planning spreadsheet.