Thames Sailing Barge Matches

When Thames sailing barges traded under sail their crews were often very competitive because they were often literally racing against other barges in order to get the next cargo. Most skippers and mates were paid on a share basis so that if the barge did not deliver a freight of cargo they did not get paid!

This made it very important if they were sailing up to the Docks in London to get in first before barges that were going to the same dock to load from the same ship so that they got loaded first and were away before the other barges which had to wait to next day to be loaded. It was the same with delivery of a cargo. The barge that arrived first would usually be unloaded first. Barges competed even against others owned by the same company but it was even more important from an owner’s point of view that their crews could get freights that might otherwise be carried by other owner’s barges.

This natural competition led to formal races started in 1863 on the Thames. Known as “Matches” they are credited with leading to the development of faster and more handy craft. Owners built and fitted out barges specially to race with very large sails.

The two big events were on the Thames and the Medway ran annually (other than during the two World wars) until 1963.

However the revival in enthusiasm for barges lead to enthusiasts and owners reviving the races not just on the Thames and Medway but also on other rivers.

A barge match is a wonderful event to sail on. Its very exciting to experience a dozen or so barges racing in close competition. Typically the night before the Match will see all the barges moored up together and crews meeting up for what is usually a very social event.

Race day will see a day’s sailing often over courses of 30 or 40 miles with barges racing in classes so that they are as well matched as possible.

Some events like the Swale and Colne rallies combine the barge race with classes of other traditional craft including smacks and bawleys so that a fleet of between 20 and 30 traditional sailing vessels are all out together. Its a great opportunity for photographers and artists with an interest in traditional sail.

After most matches there is a prize-giving and a supper attended by the crews which is another very social event.