I had the best evening Saturday night! A friend took me to a restaurant called “The Boat.” That is exactly what it is – an old barge anchored on the River Thames at Richmond Bridge. It was a perfect summer night. Sitting on the upper deck looking out at the river, small boats passing by couldn’t have been more picturesque.
The river barges were originally built in the fifteenth century by livery companies for merchants such as goldsmiths, fishmongers, tailors, vintner’s to ply their trade on the river. By the seventeenth century they were being fitted with elaborate carving and gold gilding, creating an elegant style, using up to thirty oarsmen for coronations, and state events.
By the mid-eighteenth century the boats became less popular and started to disappear. The Boat restaurant is thought to be one of only eleven barges of this type still in existence.
After the last day of Wimbledon, I’m SO ready to go back to the beach in Hermosa.
Jared Palmer and Don Johnson won the Gentlemen’s Invitational Doubles, so the USA hasn’t been completely closed out of titles on the men’s side at The Championships 2010.
The men’s final ended as everyone expected, with Rafael Nadal dropping to the court in exultation, winning the 2010 Wimbledon title.
The Spaniard was at his best, and Thomas Berdych never really go it going. He looked resigned to recieving finalist plate around the middle of the second set. But I give him credit for sportsmanship and good humor. While Rafa was parading around with the gold trophy Berdych was left standing by his chair waiting for the champion so they could exit the court together. Unlike a lot of players who have suffered a finals loss, and sit morosly in their chair often hiding under a towel, Berdych was smiling and gracious. The photographers on my side started calling for the Czech to turn around and give us a photo, he turned with a big smile and gave us all a very nice photo.
So thank you Tomas, I hope we see you in a lot more finals.
On the Fourth of July, I’m missing my friends, fireworks and a fun beach day but I’m going to make the best of it and celebrate my independence from the Brits in whatever style is possible!
– Cynthia
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Cynthia Lum is one of the world’s most celebrated sports photographers and has traveled the world covering all the major tennis events for 18 years. In addition to tennis she is currently shooting horse racing, golf, surfing, and beach volleyball. Visit her on-line photo archive at www.cynthialum.com where her photos are for sale for professional and personal use. She is available for hire for corporate and editorial clients. She is based in Hermosa Beach, Calif.