The Devil's Drop in calmer years
After the wettest April on record the scene is set for world record performances at Carding Mill Valley on Saturday – but without the foreign competition. Water levels are high and the going is likely to be described as “slick”. However, the Italian and Egyptian teams have pulled out, claiming the course is too dangerous.
“We wannata hava good time, not holda da breath alla da day” said italian team captain Luigi Quackamole, “Dat Devil’s Drop – Ees terrifying!”
“What a load of wimps!” quacked British entry Artful Ducker (number 56). “I’m hoping to beak the world record this Saturday and you’ve got to be able to quack it in tough conditions if you want to get to the top. Saturday should fit the bill – I think it will be very eggsciting”
Last year’s races were strategic rather than fast, with the leaders sometimes becalmed in the final yards. This year the emphasis will be on speed and balance, with the Devil’s Drop a significant factor.
The first race starts at 11.00 and is expected to end seconds later. Last race is at 4.00, to enable everyone to get back home in time for the Cup Final..
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RSPCA animal welfare officers may decide to attend the race tomorrow as concern has been expressed that the high speed of the course may result in unacceptable injuries to the less experienced competitors. The course organisers have promised to have a duck ambulance standing by but hope it will not be needed!
A fantastic day at the races. The course record was broken at 2 minutes 9 seconds for the course proved very fast this year due to the unusual amount of rain over the past few weeks. RSPCA concerns proved unfounded though one competitor is thought to have fled the course having looked at Devils Drop….. certainly at the end of the day one duck was missing!!
Most of the races were fully subscribed and an enjoyable time was had by all.
With so many punters Stretton Climate Care volunteers were able to talk with many, many folk about energy efficiency, drought,heat waves and many other subjects people were concerned about.
We organise the event for fun …. Climate Change can get so serious but it is interesting to note that each year there are increasing numbers of people who seem to have a good understanding of what we are doing to our beautiful but fragile world.
Thanks for all the support and a special thanks to the local traders who donated prizes.