Glasgow to Edinburgh Canal Row

The following is a photographic record of the achievement of Dr Peter Barton and Professor Quintin McKellar, who on the 7th September 2002 sculled the entire 97km Millenium Link between Glasgow and Edinburgh in the outstanding time of 11hrs 38mins and 27secs. Unfortunately, due to an unplanned swim at Dullatur, many of the photos of  the latter half of the row failed to develop, but there is video evidence available of the finish, for any of you doubters! (It was also discovered that mobile phones do not work underwater either!)

The row was closely followed on bicycle by National Rowing Academy Director Iain Somerside, dispensing words of wisdom and coaching advice ad-infinitum, and his able assistant Ross McKellar carrying food and provisions. Other stragglers and passers-by joined at various points along the way, and family members met the duo for a brief lunch break at Linlithgow. Norris McWhirter apparently declined an invitation to attend.

This is now the third time the row has been undertaken since the canal was re-opened, but the first time by a team of only two athletes. It remains to be seen whether or not anyone else will rise to the challenge. Meanwhile messrs Barton & McKellar have other extreme-rowing plans on the horizon so watch this space.

(Click on thumbnails to enlarge)

1. Speirs Wharf, Glasgow 05.50. The athletes ready themselves for the task ahead.

2. Yes, it really was this dark!

3. 05.55, Peter and Quintin head off into the unknown.

4. SARA talent scout, Iain Somerside accompanied by Ross McKellar wait at Ruchill for the first sighting of the crew.

5. Bridge perfectly negotiated by Peter, even in the darkness.

6. Quintin plows on at a metronomic 21 strokes per minute as the sun begins to rise in the distance.

7. The photographer is so busy taking pictures, he fails to warn the crew that they are about to hit the bank! Plenty more of that to come.

8. The surroundings begin to look a little more interesting now approaching Kirkintilloch.

9. Young Ross takes a breather.

10. If only the Union Canal was a nice as this!

11. Perfect synchronicity, and still steady at 21!

12. Boat moving along really nicely now.

13. The subtle addition of shades in the bow seat adds to the impression of gritty determination.

14. Quintin squeezes the pressure along the best stretch of water, heading towards Dullatur.

15. First major obstacle - Dullatur Lock.

16. Lock successfully negotiated, the crew take the opportunity to grab some food.

17. So you think getting in a boat from this height looks easy?

18. Quintin is not so sure!

19. Still thinks so?

20. Don't try this at home!

21. The duo reach Falkirk, and begin the half mile slog uphill.

22. Peter, ever confident, Falkirk Wheel in background.

23. The beginning of the Union Canal - looks harmless enough.

24. Better add a few more layers of micropore, just in case.

25. It's hard going for some! Iain takes a rest.

26. Last photo of the expedition, launching onto the Union Canal. An unplanned aquatic experience earlier in the day is the possible cause of the failure of the remaining photos to develop. As a result, Peter & Quintin require to row the whole course again sometime in the near future!

Dodgy website by very wet bloke on bike. Animated GIF courtesy of Triton University Rowing.