The Devizes to Westminster International Canoe race (DW) is an ultra marathon that takes place every Easter weekend and is the longest non-stop canoe race in the world.

Having never set foot in a K2 Kayak before, Paul Morris and I have had the aspiration to complete the DW since 2022 and have focused our efforts over the past 10 months to participate in the 2024 event as part of the Royal Marines team. Most of our Friends and Family will know all about our endeavours; we have bored many of you with stories from our training exploits and efforts from all four of the pre-races (the Waterside Series). The time is now upon us; the race will take place this coming weekend starting in Devizes on the morning of Saturday 30 March and, all being well, going non-stop to make Westminster on the morning of Sunday 31 March. We would be very grateful for your support.

The race runs from Devizes in Wiltshire and finishes just downstream of Westminster Bridge in central London, opposite the Houses of Parliament. The race covers 125 miles and has 77 portages. The first 52 miles are along the Kennet and Avon Canal to Reading, the next 55 miles are on the River Thames to Teddington and the final 17 mile section is on the tidal portion of the Thames. The race has been held annually over the Easter Weekend since 1948.

The Royal Marines have a proud heritage throughout the history of the race, winning the race sixteen times.

This years' Royal Marines Team aims to take part in the Waterside Race series, the DW race and raise money for the Royal Marines Charity in the process. The Team also aims to win the Armed Forces Trophy and the Folding Boat Trophy.

You can follow their progress on Instagram: @royalmarineskayak

Royal Marines’ Charity exist to give a lifetime of support to the Royal Marines Family. Their mission is to provide support, advice and friendship to serving and retired Royal Marines, their families, those who aspire to join and those with close links to the Corps

The Royal Marines Charity offer a range of services and support to the entire Royal Marines Family. The Royal Marines Devises to Westminster Kayak Marathon Team will be racing in support of this wonderful cause.