on the race for river swims

“It’s an event steeped in history and tradition.”

IF ANGLING were horse racing, then June 16th would be one of the highlights of the calendar, akin to the Gold Cup or Grand National.

So, let’s adopt a commentator’s voice and join in the fun with a tongue-in-cheek rundown of the race to the banks at the start of the new season ahead:

“And so you join us today for the Opening Day Derby of 2021, an event steeped in history and tradition. It’s a full house on the banks, and expectation is high for some fast and furious action.

“What a line-up of runners and riders we’ve got today. “Into the starting blocks they go and looking a bit feisty already behind the stalls is Emotional Esox. His trainers weren’t sure whether he should be racing at this time of year, but let’s see how he performs.

“Showing early pace on the inside rail is Stick Float Steve, having his first run for three months and showing lovely early pace. On his outer it’s Pleasure Man Pete, neck and neck with The Quiver Tip Queen, who in turn is just a whisker ahead of Bertie Barbel Basher.

“There’s a bit of jostling for pegs in the middle of the pack as Lift Float Larry and Matchbox Man come with steady runs. But making a late charge on the outside of the pack is pre-race favourite Bertie Barbel, who gets up right on the line to land the spoils and bag the best swim on the stretch! But hold on, there’s a steward’s enquiry… with some racegoers claiming the favourite jumped the gun at the start…”

Whatever you fish for, wherever you fish... have a great season!