A Div B Classic race run from from Tutbury to Marston Weir. In 2003 it took Peter Keron 10min 27sec, whilst the slowest junior completed the race in just over 20 min.

It is a staightforward course but when shallow you need to look ahead for lines which avoid beaches. The last 200m or so is dead straight from a bridge to a simple concrete weir, with the finish about 50 m below the weir.The weir is best taken left of centre, this route will avoid most of the large standing wave which can give a pronounced lift at the front causing the stern to be tilted down risking hard contact with the concrete sill.

Toilets and changing facilities are made generously available to racers by our hosts, Tutbury cricket club and it is hoped to be able to arrange some refreshments for next year.

The organiser is also considering running a race on the Trent around Burton as a double, with a classic in the morning and a sprint in the afternoon, both involving shooting Burton weir.

Bill Lawrenson