Boris Mavra and Ian Webster might argue that the palindrome “AManaPlanaCanalPanama” is actually the second longest palindrome in the world, and that is because they successfully canoed a long, long, long, long way from rural Wiltshire to Westminster, arriving today Sunday morning following 26 hours of solid effort plus a tasty bacon pit stop inspired by Vanessa, Boris’ wife.
Boris and Ian were taking part in the annual Devizes Westminster race, more of which you can learn about at this link. Both paddlers would have had to have been more metonomic than palindromic as they made their way along the Kennet and Avon Canal.
“All done.” wrote Vanessa Impey in an email. “Boris and Lt Col Ian Webster met on Wednesday for an hour's paddle, after both lost their planned teammates. Ian was 3rd in age group over 55 GB Triathlon. Mark Workman (Boris crewed his 20.5 hr Channel Swim 2012) had developed nasty tendonitis and opted to crew for Boris, so now Boris owes him 6 hrs or so. Also crewing was Gurkha Kim and both provided superb support.
It was hard work for both paddlers with a worrying time overnight that was overcome by emergency bacon and egg rolls and a dry robe. The time taken to cover 125 miles and traverse 77 locks was 26hrs 05 mins.
It was lovely to see friendly faces, despite the false alarm of possibly delaying the finish until the afternoon due to the tidal Thames tantalisingly turning on tired limbs.
It was great to have positive support from Phil Challinor and Linda Paxton who timed it brilliantly and also messages from Serps friends, and have Boris finish in a fit state. Just a few cuts, bruises and blisters.”
Hope those at Camp Eton are having a great weekend too and all at Serps have a great Easter.
Best wishes,Vanessa
Rod Newing was in awe when he saw the pair's borrowed canoe.
[John Tierney] @swimmingdragons
