Brave single sculler Will Hamlyn from Gateshead CRC was number 1 in the start order in 2017 and set off at 1.00pm, if not a few minutes earlier, from Newburn. In front of him was 25km of hopefully calm water all the way to Tynemouth. Behind him, at least for a few brief moments, were the other 33 participants, each trying to beat the all-time record of just under 1 hr 40 min (or at least their own personal demons).

We are almost there, with final preparations going on at the host clubs at Newburn and Tynemouth. And some boats are here already. The weather forecast is good - bright if not sunny, warm but not too warm and lightish (south) winds. GPS tracking will be at http://durtytracking.com/h/h_map.php?event=62. Start from 1.00pm, finish from 3.00pm-ish. Fastest ever crew did the 25km in 1 hour 37 mins (presumably with a fast tide out and a following wind). Or maybe not