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Doggetts Coat and Badge Race, River Thames, London
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Doggetts Coat and Badge Race, River Thames, London
Watermen on duty at the end of Doggetts Coat and Badge Race on the River Thames. They are wearing the livery of the Fishmongers Company. This is believed to be the oldest rowing race in the world, the competitors being a maximum of six apprentice watermen. It has been held every year since 1715, running between London Bridge and Cadogan Pier, Chelsea, passing under a total of eleven bridges en route. The winners prize is a traditional watermans red coat with a silver badge, plus a lapel badge. There are also various money prizes given by the Fishmongers Company. Thomas Doggett was an actor and comedian who relied on watermen for transport -- he instigated the race in 1715, and left instructions in his will for it to continue after his death in 1721
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Media ID 4421619
© Mary Evans Picture Library 2015 - https://copyrighthub.org/s0/hub1/creation/maryevans/MaryEvansPictureID/10410677
1715 Apprentice Badge Cadogan Chelsea Comedian Competition Competitive Custom Embankment Livery Oldest P Ier Rowing Spectators Tradition Traditions Watermen
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EDITORS COMMENTS
1. "A Tradition Unbroken: The Doggett's Coat and Badge Race on the River Thames, London (1909)" In this evocative photograph, the end of the Doggett's Coat and Badge Race on the River Thames unfolds, with watermen proudly displaying their hard-earned victories. The scene takes place at the heart of London, with the iconic embankment and the historic bridges in the background. This annual competition, believed to be the oldest continuously held rowing race in the world, was initiated in 1715 by Thomas Doggett, an actor and comedian, who relied on watermen for transport. The race, which pits a maximum of six apprentice watermen against each other, runs between London Bridge and Cadogan Pier, Chelsea, passing under a total of eleven bridges. The grand prize for the winner is a traditional waterman's red coat adorned with a silver badge, symbolizing their triumph and dedication to their craft. In addition, the Fishmongers Company, a guild that has supported the race since its inception, awards various monetary prizes to the victors. The rich history of this competition is evident in the watermen's traditional livery, which they wear with pride as they gather at the finish line. The Fishmongers Company, a historical institution, has played a crucial role in preserving the customs and traditions of the watermen's guild. The race, with its long-standing traditions and competitive spirit, has become a cherished part of London's maritime heritage. The Doggett's Coat and Badge Race, with its unique blend of history, tradition, and sport, continues to captivate spectators and participants alike. The image of the watermen, dressed in their livery, standing tall and proud against the backdrop of the River Thames and the iconic London bridges, is a testament to the enduring spirit of this ancient competition.
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