The first ever Thames 200 Ultra will run on 24 August covering the length of the Thames, from Lechlade to Teddington. It’s the most accessible ultra paddling race in the UK: open to any kind of human-powered craft, straight-through or relay options, easy to sign up, and centrally located. From amateurs to professionals and former professionals, the competition is going to be fierce.

The “Royal Retirees” are mostly from Royal Canoe Club, and include mostly ex-Team GB paddlers with numerous top finishes from world championships in marathon and sprint canoe/kayak. Two of them have also completed the Devizes to Westminster (DW) race of 125 miles which includes about half of the Thames 200 Ultra course. They’re still debating what tactics to employ – all K1s? Mix of K1s and K2s? Start in a K4 and just hammer the competition from the beginning? It’s all up for debate.

Are you tempted to race yet? Sign up to be part of the first ever Thames 200 Ultra at thames200ultra.com, and tune into Paddle Daily’s lead-up coverage on our website, Instagram, Facebook, and YouTube. Plus, we’ll be LIVE from the race on 24-25 August! You won’t want to miss this one.