ABOVE: WELL SWUM ALL! Gilbert Evans winner of the (1935) South Wales
Argus one mile swim in the Usk, and Joan Thomas, winner of the women's
half-mile swim, congratulate each other. At the back are P. Preston
(third), Thelma Preston (second), V. Scarfi (third) and F. Blythe
(second), runners-up in their respective events. (SWA Sept 11th
1935.) |
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The
Usk Mile and Half Mile
Swimming Races
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From
around 1912 until the late 1930s, swimming races were held in September
in the River Usk. Contestants were timed over the mile course for
men and half-mile course for women. The starting point for men was
just south of the St. Julians Railway Bridge (between Caerleon and
Newport) and the women started half way between that and the common
finishing point opposite the Rexville (Lovells) factory. Swimmers
entered the water from boats and started at staggered intervals.
After the race, competitors and officials made their way to Lovells
canteen for warmth and welcome refreshment!
Gilbert Evans and Fred Blythe, both from Caerleon, came first and
second in the 1934 and 1935 events organised by Newport Swimming
Club.
The South Wales Argus reported that ten thousand spectators watched
the 1935 race crowding the banks of the river at every possible
vantage point. |
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