Great River Race 2012

  Ever since stepping foot in London our group has had one adventure after another, and have enjoyed every minute of being over here in the UK.  We have seen so much already and have been too many activities that have either taken place in downtown Richmond or in Central London or elsewhere in the country.  One event in particular that I went to with a few of my fellow SEA friends was The Great River Race 2012.  This was a race that took place down on the Thames River from Central London all the way to Richmond, right downtown from our campus (about a 5 minute walk).  This race was a 23 mile long race with teams of rowers ranging from groups of 3 all the way up to 10.  The finish line was where we all ended up watching the race and cheered on the teams to the finish along with the locals.

            It was a unique experience because there was a feeling of camaraderie in the crowds of people cheering on the teams and it seemed like we just fit in with the rest of the locals from around town.  We really got to see and experience firsthand something special and be a part of true English culture.  Another amazing aspect that we got to witness was seeing the Queen’s Ship that was made especially for Her Diamond Jubilee.  This was the nicest ship I have ever seen and something that I certainly will never forget; the ship even had two Olympic rowers on board to help row the ship. 

            Overall this was one of my favorite parts of the trip to be able to spend time with the locals and be a part of something that was so captivating.  London has offered many great opportunities and provided many memories to be made and this is one that I will not forget.  I highly recommend if anyone comes over to London to take a walk by the Thames River and if there happens to be a boat race to stop and watch.  You never know what you might be able to see and experience.