Paddle UK is to sponsor the 2025 ThruDark Devizes to Westminster, the world’s longest non-stop canoe race.
Taking place over the Easter weekend since 1948, competitors start in the town of Devizes in Wiltshire, paddling 125 miles and navigating 77 locks, until they reach Westminster in the heart of London.
The race follows the Kennet and Avon Canal for 53 miles to Reading, before joining the River Thames downstream for 55 miles through Henley-on-Thames, Marlow, Maidenhead, Windsor, Staines and Kingston
The final section is the tidal River Thames, starting at Teddington Lock, that is followed for the final 17 miles through the western suburbs of London to Westminster.
Whilst the challenge has remained essentially the same since its inception in 1948, there have been several changes to the rules on safety grounds over the lifespan of the race.
The Senior Doubles class is a time trial event, and competitors tackle the event non-stop. The current record stands at 15 hours 19 minutes and 35 seconds, set in 2023 by Keith Moule (Chelmsford) and Tom Sharpe (Richmond).
Historically there have also been stage classes for Senior Singles and Doubles, Junior Doubles, Veteran / Junior and Endeavour that race over the four days of competition.
In 2025 the DW will run two extra classes on a trial basis – a senior singles SUP class will be added to the stages race, and there will also be a Relay class for Senior Doubles.
The race is managed, organised and run by The Devizes to Westminster Organisation Limited, a not for profit organisation comprising a team of 30 volunteers who work throughout the year to ensure the event can take place.
Over the Easter weekend that team is bolstered by an additional 300 volunteers from the DW and paddlesports community who willingly give up their time down the course to help paddlers face the challenge of the DW.
Ashley Metcalfe, Chief Executive of Paddle UK said:
“I am delighted that Paddle UK will be an official sponsor of the Devizes to Westminster canoe race in 2025. We look forward to developing our relationship further with the DW Organisation to continue to support this iconic event.
“Our best wishes go out to the paddlers competing and our thanks to the volunteers who work so hard to make sure this historic canoe race takes place every year.”
Every year many paddlers will raise money for charity and the DW recognises these efforts and awards a trophy for the crew that raises the most money.
Over the years, it is estimated that DW paddlers have raised nearly £2 million for charity.
Paul Fielden, Director and Chairman of the Devizes to Westminster Organisation Ltd said:
“2025 marks the 75th running of the DW and we are delighted to have the support of Paddle UK as we look to grow the race and build a sustainable future that ensures the race can run for many years to come.
“Our alliance with Paddle UK is a significant step in safeguarding this iconic challenge for the next generation of DW paddlers and we are excited at the prospect of working with them over the coming months and years.”
Further information about the ThruDark Devizes to Westminster International Canoe Race, taking place on 18–21 April 2025, is available on the DW event website.