T

They’ve waited around
practicing their manoeuvres
up and down the canal side
mastering approaches

Eyes focused
for a signal
and a time
and a place of green

Spring afternoon
perfect conditions
for old friends
to compete against each other

Superstar sportsmen
can only sit and watch
as gladiatorial battles take place
on the terracotta tiles

Spectators look on
from vaulted vantage points
up high and looking down
on the contest below

As they take their positions
and wait for the starter
spreading the breadcrumbs
across the walkway