50th Vogalonga, Venice, Sunday 24th May, 2026
The Vogalonga is a 30km (18.6 mile) non-competitive marathon created as a protest against motorised boat wash and pollution.
This 50th year celebration saw nearly 2,000 boats and over 8,000 participants, including Pool of Life.
It was an early start but we were all eager to load our boat and get out on the water.
After a false start (our Italian helm forgot to bring her refreshments bag!) we made our way down to the Grand Canal and along to the starting point.
We knew it would be a long paddle so we took it at a calm and steady pace, enjoying the beautiful surroundings.
A few hours later, with only a ten minute refreshment break, we made our way back to the base.
We were tired and aching but so proud of ourselves when we received our medals.
To round the day off we all celebrated with a group evening meal.
