Anchor is up for tin baths
Tin Bath races Castletown Harbour .
Published on Friday 6 July 2012 09:35
TOMORROW (Saturday) will see the 41st World Tin Bath Championships take place in the middle harbour at Castletown.
The unique event, which kicks off at 2.30pm, is run by the Castletown Ale Drinkers Society.
This year it has attracted more than 90 competitiors from all around the world.
CADS member Dave Collister explained: ‘This year Nick Cain returns to defend his title but expects strong opposition from his brother, multi-winner Lee Cain.
‘This year’s dark horse could be Trevor Marsham who travels from South Africa or Gareth Jones from Walney Island, who is sailing over the day before – not in a bath
‘Also among the entrants will be wacky sports TV presenter Ben Webster and his comedy partner Tim Biglowe, who will be filming for Community TV.
‘And this year will see more than 20 people in the veteran’s class for the over-40s. Is it becoming part of our mid-life crisis?’
Dave said: ‘The Team Race will see Team Digna, including Nick and Lee Cain, start as favourites but watch out for the Lambs Navy Rum Team which sees TT winner Chris Palmer out in his new “Duckati”. Although they will have to watch out for the Phillippine Team The Wet Ones and Team Tintanic – I bet they sink!
‘And if anyone gets lost the team from Isle of Man Search and Rescue will be on hand!’
He added: ‘In the ladies’ class, 13-times winner Erika Cowen returns to try and win the title from her daughter Greta who won last year.
‘And the Australian champion Frances Thornton from Kalgoorlie, Western Australia, is coming to the island to take part and raise cash for the Flying Doctor Service.
‘We’ve also just been contacted by Dr Tom Shaker and his girlfriend Cindy Miller from Massachusetts in America who will be flying in for the weekend especially.’
Other races taking place throughout the afternoon include the Manx National Snake Race Championships.
Dave said: ‘This is where teams of four men and two ladies paddle large rubber inner tubes backwards down the harbour.
‘This year 21 teams have entered with Ramsey Rowers out to retain the title for the fourth year.
‘But look out for the Curvy Sea Dogs, Central Young Farmers and Southern Young Farmers A and B.’
Also during the championships intrepid bird men and women will make attempts at man-powered flight.
More entrants into this event are being sought.
‘The record is still 10 feet 6 inches we think – before the tape sank,’ said Dave. ‘And the CADs will be doing a new range of stunts this year.’
Compere for the day will be the ‘electric’ Phil Taubman while Castletown Band will play from 1.30pm to 2.30pm and Port St Mary Lifeboat will be in attendance in case of baths sinking!
‘So come along to the World Tin Bath Championships at the Tin Bath Racing Capital of the World – Castletown – and enjoy two hours of slapstick stunts and family entertainment,’ urged Dave.
‘And don’t forget all proceeds go to charity, so help us help others. Go on, bring your soap, bring your bath, come and watch and have a laugh!’
This year the championships are sponsored by Jameson Whiskey, Heron and Brearley, Capital International, The Vineyard, Close Private Bank, Tower Insurance, 3FM and Poker Stars.
For more information contact Dave on 341852.