While none of those in the photo look very athletic, looks can be deceiving. One thing for certain is that the sport in those days drew massive crowds. There are reports of 100,000 watching events on the Tyne. Apparently Tyneside had quite a few stars in the 1800s notably Harry Clasper and James Renforth. Renforth is alleged to have been murdered by poison just before a world championship race in Canada. Another famous name who raced on the Tyne was world champion sculler Ned Hanlon who was either American or Canadian. He was an extrovert probably in the style of Mohammed Ali promoting himself and his sport. Thousands flocked to Newcastle to see him race and at least one pub carries his name in Birtley. The Hanlon. There is a magnificent monument to James Renforth standing outside the Shipley Art Gallery in Gateshead.


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