Doggett’s Coat and Badge Race

Event date | Jul 15, 2014

Tuesday 15 July 2014

Please assemble by 1.00 pm at Cadogan Pier on Chelsea Embankment to walk down to see the finish of the race at 1.10pm.

The race was first held in 1715 to mark the first anniversary of the accession of George I, which makes the Doggett’s Coat and Badge Rowing Race one of the oldest annual sporting events in the world. Each year, six Watermen race from London Bridge to Chelsea’s Albert Bridge competing for a coveted scarlet coat with a silver arm badge and breeches, reminiscent of the livery that was used by the early 18^th century Watermen.

Last year we were honoured to have Her Royal Highness The Princess Royal as our guest who presented each of the six contestants with a bottle of champagne. Also present were past winners of the Race in the Doggetts scarlet coat and breeches, plus a Guard of Honour of four In-Pensioners from The Royal Hospital Chelsea in their scarlet uniforms.

Take part in this ancient piece of Chelsea history by joining The Chelsea Society to cheer on the contestants and congratulate the winner who will be received by the Mayor of Kensington & Chelsea on the pontoon.

Please note changes to this year’s presentation ceremony:

This year the race and the presentation ceremony are going to be filmed from a helicopter which will follow the rowers from London Bridge. This means that the Presentation of Champagne to all the contestants will be done on the pontoon, not on the Embankment as is our usual practice. I regret to say that members will not have access to the pontoon due to various regulations, but hopefully the whole event can be viewed from the Embankment or from Albert Bridge.

By courtesy of Fullers Brewery of Chiswick, beer will be provided.