Newcastle Handicap

The Newcastle Handicap (also known as the Christmas Handicap) was created by Thomas Winship in 1876 and was a well-supported event held over a number of days on the Tyne over a half-mile between the High Level and Redheugh Bridges.

9th April 1881 (Bell's Life):

"No less than ninety entries have been secured for Messrs. W.R. McKenzie (Black Bull Inn, High Bridge) and Thomas Winship's open boat handicap, fixed to take place on Good Friday and following day on the Tyne. The handicap is apparently a good one and there is pretty sure to be a large acceptance and excellent sport".

25th August 1866 (Bell's Life):

Boat racing handicap at Scotswood – A boat racing handicap for money prizes, came off at Scotswood near Newcastle, on Saturday last, and excited a great deal of interest. There were 28 entries and after several good contests R. Humble won, J. Tulip being second.