The second half of the nineteenth century was the golden age of Fen Skating – the sport of speed skating on frozen flooded fens and broads. Competitive races were popular and drew large audiences. The course was 660 yards, marked by a barrel and flag at each end, and skaters raced in pairs, either side of the line between the barrels, and back to the start. Matches for women were also staged, but they drew a smaller audience and offered lower value prizes.