ESC Rowers - Cockleshell Challenge 2026

Published 21:00 on 28 May 2026

Eastney Cruising Association host the annual Cockleshell Challenge every year and Escapade was entered last Sunday. It is an approx 13.3km race starting from ECA start line out into the Solent, following Southsea beach, then up rounding Horse Sand Fort, back along to the Langstone Bar and down to the finish at ECA.

Sunday was a scorcher! Not having ever rowed at 'race pace' for this length of time nor rowed in the open sea, the crew members were nervous. Conditions could not have been more perfect for our first foray into the Solent. Very little wind, sunshine and not too much swell (just the odd annoying jet ski!) but with the excellent guidance of our cox Paul, we completed the challenge. The sense of achievement was huge, for the crew and for ESC. The row was epic and we had the added bonus of Paul Flint on Ruby and Jonny Hepworth on Bumble Bee out on the course cheering us on, which was amazing.

For anyone thinking of challenging themselves, please consider signing up for one or more of these rowing events. It can be a great team accomplishment and give you a sense of achievement and above all else, it is the greatest fun!

Well done Escapade crew, Paul, Mel (heroic stroke), Lou, Steph and Sarah. Thank you too, Paul, for towing the boat.

The next event is down in Bristol for the Celtic sprints on Saturday. There are two crews going - all boats and equipment are provided so Escapade can stay at the Club. Good luck Team ESC!