A Different Type Of Lake Paddler

[Owen Walton]

Today, whilst out paddling on the lake, mid way between Swansea and Coal Point I came across a beautiful old clinker built, traditional rowing boat being rowed purposely along by a fit looking but obviously "mature aged" gent. I remember these types of boats from my boyhood, so I paddled over and started chatting. It turned out that the paddler (rower) John is the original owner. He purchased the boat new in 1948 and has been using ever since, ie for 61 years! When he goes on a long trip, he carries a 2 HP outboard to help him get back home (Coal Point) "if the wind comes up," from as far away as Dora Creek. Oh to be as active as that when/if I get to that age. There's always something interesting to see or happening on the Lake.

[David Gibbins]

Owen - your photograph has perfectly captured the man and the moment. It is like a great painting! So well done. Thank you.
David

[John Anderson]

Hmmm, long slender boats with fine ends and low drag. For some reason that just sounds perfect to me Phil :)

[Phil Thompson]

Ah the days of yesteryear when power was anaemic and boats were thin. The old power boats of the period were similar and had a lovely low drag shape at low speeds. As power sources became lighter and more efficient the need for efficient hulls was lessened. In the end we got fat planing hulls with efficient outboards. Long, thin with fine ends (low prismatic) - great for rowing. On Dangar Island they have similar style modern versions of this boat and they row like a dream. People use them to commute to the mainland.

[John Anderson]

Fabulous. What a lovely old boat. I took something very similar for a row on Lake Annecy in France and it was surprising how well it went considering that rowing wasn't something I'd had any practice at. I could really see some long trips being quite doable with some practice.