The Information Technologists' Company

“Cito” competes in the London to Paris Rowing Challenge

The Information Technologists’ Company's Thames Cutter, “Cito", took part in the recent London to Paris Rowing Challenge (see http://www.london2parisrowing.com for full details and timings). The route took the three teams from Tower Bridge to Pont d'Iéna on the Seine in Paris, although this year's channel crossing was foreshortened due to poor weather. The winning team from Gravesend was in “Cito", with an aggregate time in the boat of 52hr 42m. “Cito" was hired by the team from our Company for the purpose of taking part in the race.

“Cito" had some preparatory work done for the race: for example modern rowlocks were fitted to make longer legs more comfortable for the oarsmen. We intend to retain these. Following the Cutter's French adventure, Cito is back with the boatbuilder, who is manufacturing official decorative features for the boat. This will allow us to enter the Cutter into events organised by the TTRA (Thames Traditional Rowing Association), in which many other Livery Company vessels participate.

We are now preparing our plan for the 2010 Great River Race, which we plan to enter with a joint team with the Royal Signals.