|
Cambridge has several splendid bridges, which can be observed from the vantage point of a punt (for a beautiful selection, including photographs, see here). Some adventurous souls, however, disdain mere idle observation, preferring a little danger, exercise and excitement with their punting (all those qualities normally absent from punting). Therefore, the "sport" of bridge-hopping was invented. The idea of bridge-hopping is to stand on the deck of the punt, grab the bridge as it passes overhead, then climb across it as quickly as possible, ideally dropping down onto the punt as it passes out under the other side of the parapet. Bridge hopping can be hazardous (although it’s still safer than bridge-jumping), and frequently an ill-timed leap or a slippery bridge will leave the hopper soaked. Nonetheless, with small bridges, slow punts and a little common sense it's quite good fun. Really adventurous bridge-hoppers will give the punt a good shove, then all grab hold of the bridge and attempt to climb over and jump into the punt on the other side before it floats away. They are sometimes to be seen traipsing muddily along the riverbank, hunting a fugitive punt.
Related Articles -
Punt, Punts, Punting,
|
