YGRC in LondonIsland Echo went to Yarmouth Harbour recently to examine the sport of Gig Rowing as guests of the Yarmouth club. Gig Rowing began in Cornwall on the Lizard Peninsula and the port of Falmouth. The sport began as competition between pilots, who would race to ships to find employment. There are 2 Isle of Wight Gig Rowing clubs: Yarmouth (which started in 2005) and Brading Haven (which began last year). However, altogether there are 22 Gig Rowing clubs in and around the Solent. Yarmouth Gig Rowing Club (YGRC) has 35 members, male and female, from all over the Isle of Wight, and runs male, female and mixed teams. It has 2 Gig Racing boats – which can take 6 rowers as well as a cox – as well as a galley – with 4 rowers and a cox. Yarmouth Gig Rowing club competes in a wide variety of events. These include the 22-mile Great River Race (on the Thames), the 7-mile Hamble River Raid and the 10-mile Tudor Challenge from Langstone Harbour. YGRC at Great River Race In 2019, the ladies’ team from Yarmouth won the around Hayling Island race. There is 1 event on the Isle of Wight – the Bembridge Gig Fest – a 2 day event at Duver Marina. This year, Bembridge Gig Fest will be held on the weekend of 8th and 9th June. YGRC at Colwell Bay Keith Campbell – Chairman of Yarmouth Gig Rowing Club – says of Gig Rowing:
“The attraction is being out in the elements. There is great team spirit and camaraderie. It is physically relaxing when you get into the rhythm. “There is a wonderful feeling of peace when you get out into the Solent. “The boats are built for heavy seas. It is no more dangerous than any other water sport. We’ve never had an accident. “Anyone can take part – you do not even have to be a rower. If 4 people join, you can make a crew. “We would be delighted to have new members.”
YGRC at Bembridge Yarmouth Gig Rowing Club goes out on the water on Wednesday evenings, Thursday afternoons, Saturday and Sunday mornings. Further information can be found on the following website: https://www.yarmouthgigrowingclub.co.uk/. The membership secretary can be contacted at [email protected]. YGRC at the finish of the Great River Race
