Lord Wandsworth College dazzles in Devizes to Westminster Canoe Race
Marathon canoe crews from Lord Wandsworth College have finished second out of all schools competing in this year’s Junior Devizes to Westminster Canoe Race.
The gruelling 118-mile event is dubbed ‘the canoeist’s Everest’ and took place over the Easter weekend.
Crews were required to canoe from Devizes in Wiltshire, through to the Thames Tideway at Barnes Elms. The race took in 77 portages and three nights of camping along the way.
Along with ranking second out of the schools competing, LWC also earned a host of other honours.
Canoeists from the College won the Junior Mixed Doubles K2 category and finished fourth overall in the Junior Doubles. A crew made up of a staff member and student came second in the Veteran-Junior category and LWC was first out of all schools entering with CCF (Combined Cadet Force) crews.
All LWC boats finished, new College records were set and four crews made the top ten Junior crews overall.
LWC has a long history of marathon canoeing. This year’s squad was crowned National School Canoe Champions in November of last year. 17 students and one member of staff took part in the Devizes to Westminster Race.
Speaking to those who competed, LWC Headmaster, Adam Williams said, “To call you 'true LWC pupils' is to do you justice. You are the epitome of courage, perseverance and quiet strength. You’ve set the bar. I am in awe of you all, as I am your teachers and support crews who are so passionate in supporting you to achieve your dream.”
The canoe crews chose to raise money for charity, as part of the event. So far, they have amassed over £2,600 for Surfers Against Sewage – an environmental organisation dedicated to protecting oceans, beaches and wildlife from pollution.
April 2025