U16 gig glory for Caradon and Cadgwith

A total of 22 crews took to the water at Newquay on Sunday 4th August to contest the 2013 U16 Gig Championships. In contrast to the previous day’s bright sunshine, the rain came down but a favourable wind made for fair sea conditions for the young rowers.

Several strong crews were fielded from all over the South West, looking to take the title from 2012 winners Cadgwith. This year there was a noticeable increase in the number of girls competing, with several crews competing for the female trophy.

Cadgwith took the girls’ title for the second year running, with their girls crew finishing 11th overall after coming third in the plate final. Cotehele Quay finished seventh overall to win the mixed shield, for crews of three male and three female rowers. Coverack B took the plate race cup home.

This year also saw some strong B crew performances, with Caradon and Cadgwith finishing 5th and sixth respectively after facing each other in both the quarter and the semi-finals.

There were no surprises in the line-up for the final, which included strong junior clubs Caradon, Cadgwith, Fowey and Coverack – all of whom have fielded strong crews consistently this season. Caradon and Cadgwith had faced each other in the previous two races, with Caradon posting the fastest times in each round.

After a strong start from all crews, Cadgwith and Caradon – 1st and 2nd respectively in 2012 – pulled away from the pack, neck and neck after the first leg. Caradon turned first with Cadgwith just behind, Fowey in third and Coverack in fourth place. Across the second leg, which saw a moderate swell, Caradon pulled away, opening their lead before the second mark. They pulled away again down the final leg, finishing the race just over 30 seconds ahead of second placed Cadgwith. Fowey came in third place with their crew of two female and four male rowers, with Coverack in fourth place.

A good crowd of spectators braved the rain to cheer on the young rowers both from the harbour and the tripper boats, a fantastic display of support for the future of the sport.

Thanks go to Newquay RC and the CPGA for hosting a great day of gig rowing. The highlight of the day had to be Bridport Gig Club all having great fun warming up on the beach to the ‘Rocky’ theme tune!

The next junior championship is the under 14s on the 25th August at Hayle Pool.

Rhiannon Halliday