Here are the results from the very first South East of England League Regatta which was held yesterday at Bewl Water in Kent.
It was hosted by Lewes Pilot Gig Club after the league was established by Patrick Bird, the head coach at London Cornish.
As you will see we were not racing to strict categories (hence men’s race 1, women’s race 2 etc). The teams were not directly comparable between clubs – with crews featuring a broad mix of experienced rowers, total newbies, vets, super vets and some master vets. It was important to be as inclusive as possible and for everyone who wanted to race to be given a chance.
The main thing of course was that every body ABSOLUTELY LOVED IT!
After the most incredibly stormy day on Saturday, the weather gods shone down on us. Bewl Water became a warm, sunny and calm place to compete, just what you want really when it’s your very first crack at starting a brand new competition.
This first event saw four clubs competing but there are about a dozen in the region which it’s hoped will join in and form a strong gig rowing community as far east as you can get from Cornwall.
Patrick Bird says it’s something he’s always dreamt of: “It’s important to see gig racing in the South East. I can see it going from strength to strength.” What a fantastic way to continue his father’s legacy.
Gary Budd, the chairman of Lewes Pilot Gig Club said it was an incredible experience for his rowers, with new members experiencing the very best side of the sport: “The emotion, the excitement of winning, the camaraderie when crews have trained and give it their all together.”
Special thanks to Kate Conway for the editorial and pictures.
No Comments on "The first South East of England League Regatta hosted by Lewes Pilot Gig Club"