Kimbolton School, Cambridgeshire, is celebrating an outstanding achievement after its Canoe Team secured victory in the Junior Team category at the prestigious Devizes to Westminster International Canoe Race over the Easter weekend.
Known as one of the most challenging endurance events in the UK, the Devizes to Westminster (DW) race covers an extraordinary 125 miles from Wiltshire to the heart of London. Competitors face 77 portages, navigating both canal and river waters, testing not only physical but mental strength, teamwork and determination.
This year, twelve pupils from Kimbolton’s Fifth Form, Lower Sixth and Upper Sixth, took on the gruelling challenge alongside two Old Kimboltonians (OKs). Achieving exceptional results, the team claimed the overall top spot in the Junior Team category, taking home a trophy for their efforts. Additionally, duo, Tom B. and Theo B., finished second place in the Junior Doubles Class.
For some of the team it was their first time tackling the DW race. Each participant demonstrated remarkable perseverance, embodying Kimbolton’s core values of courage, endeavour and integrity throughout the four-day event.
Among the other standout stories was team captain, Emma C., who, despite a shoulder injury, far exceeded her initial target of 14 miles by completing approximately 118 miles alongside her boat partner James. Their determination inspired the whole squad.
Reflecting on the experience, Emma C., said: “Crossing the finish line after four days of gruelling paddling is something I’ll never forget. The resilience, teamwork and support from everyone around me made it an unforgettable journey – and a challenge that’s shaped me for life.”
The team’s overall performance was exceptional, with impressive results across the board:
Junior Doubles Final Results:
2nd Place Overall (Junior Category): Tom and Theo
6th Place: Zac and Vukasin
7th Place: Leo and Aaron
11th Place and 1st Under 17 Crew: Aimee and Isaac
There were also strong finishes also from Emma and James, and Oscar, partnered by OK Peter, who stepped in following a late injury substitution.
Jon Sweet, Head of Outdoor Pursuits at Kimbolton School, praised the team’s dedication: “The Devizes to Westminster Race is one of the toughest, yet most rewarding, challenges our pupils can undertake. It pushes every participant beyond what they think is possible -physically and mentally. This year’s team showed incredible grit, teamwork and spirit, truly reflecting the values we hold at Kimbolton. After long days paddling, the work didn’t stop at the water’s edge. Evenings were spent pitching tents, preparing camp meals and resetting for the next day – a true testament to their commitment and camaraderie. We are immensely proud of every single one of them.”
The DW race is more than a test of endurance; it is a rite of passage for those brave enough to face it. For the Kimbolton team, it has been a journey marked by hard work and resilience and is an unforgettable achievement.
