August

Thames Trader
A.B.V. 4.5%

Thomas Doggett, an 18 Century Irish actor used the services of Thames watermen as water taxis during his daily routine.

In gratitude for their services he established a race in 1715 for six newly qualified watermen. They raced their boats on the 1st August 1715 from the Swan Inn London Bridge to the Swan Inn Chelsea, a distance of 4.5 miles.

The prize, a traditional waterman's red coat adorned with a large silver badge, went to the now forgotten winner of that first event.

The Doggett's Coat & Badge Race, now run in July, is the oldest continuous sporting challenge in the World.

Hops used are Admiral and Pilot.