At 4am on a quiet Saturday morning on 18th May, 16 intrepid gig rowers from the River Teign Rowing Club, set off in the dark to cross the English Channel. They headed along the Dartmouth estuary towards the open sea determined to make it to Guernsey, a journey of over 100 kms.
Photo credit: River Teign Gig Club
Having 8 people in each gig enabled the crews to rotate their rowers, a strategy designed to help the crew row efficiently over the time and distance. The approach to rotate every 15 minutes with 4 people in bow, then 5 minutes later with 4 in stern, became the set routine for the next 14 hours. Rowers tried not to rock the boat too much on the changeovers and enjoyed a 15-minute break every 45 minutes! The crews settled into a steady rhythm with chatter and banter, a most beautiful sunrise started the row, and spirits were high.
The 2 GRP gigs were supported for their safety by two fantastic boats from Teignmouth Maritime Services and Penganina Fishing, with James, Lucy and Lauryn as very supportive crew members.
Lauryn, member of the support crew said, “The best part of the journey for me was seeing the 2 boats rowing perfectly in time, full of happy spirits as the beautiful sun was coming up behind them.”
Photo credit: River Teign Gig Club
The key purpose for the row was to raise funds for a new wooden gig, and 2 local charities, Children’s Hospice South West and Wetwheels Torbay. this goal and knowing the rowing club members, family and friends were tracking them, proved to be a great motivator to keep going. There were moments of silence and a chance to reflect and take in the enormity of what they were achieving as a team and club.
The conditions were near perfect for the first 5 hours with a gentle breeze from behind and calm seas, but eyes were always kept on the very large passing container ships, especially once land was no longer visible. These vessels created big swells that rose out of the sea towards the boats – a stark reminder of how vast and busy the Channel is.
The rain clouds loomed ahead, but just before it started to rain, a large pod of dolphins joined the boats, coming alongside and giving a fantastic display, jumping out of the water as they gradually disappeared into the distance. A great distraction and a sight not to be forgotten, along with the gannets ducking and diving and a very large seal, who popped its head up to have a look at the 2 very small rowing boats in a large expanse of water!
The rain set in as did the monotony of rowing, the 15-minute changes came as a relief for the chaffing, stiffening backs and blisters that were starting to set in. All sorts of topics, including food (of course), were discussed quite a lot! Lucy’s homemade cakes were gratefully received, whether to have flapjack, rocky road or a chocolate brownie next. Music was a great motivator and bringing the chance to sing loudly to favourite songs with both crews joining in. The two boats came together at times to chat and have more banter whilst the rain continued….for the next 7 hours.
Photo credit: River Teign Gig Club
Finally land slowly emerged, the rain stopped and spirits rose again. Very, very slowly the land became closer. The boat speed dropped against the tide and the wind picked up creating a choppy sea. The boats eventually arrived in Guernsey after 14.5 hours and 114 kms of rowing. Exhausted, and proud with beaming faces, the crew reflected on their achievement as a team and rowing club. New friendships and memories were made, and the team shared hugs, fish and chips and cold beer on the Quay. What better way to end a once in a lifetime, memorable experience and of course an incredible achievement?
Gig club Captain, Kate congratulated those who took part,
“Huge congratulations to all those who took part in the Channel row and worked hard to make it happen. What an amazing achievement -the whole club is very proud of you. The fundraising efforts have been absolutely mind blowing and showing a real positive club spirit that is beyond words.”
Participant Rachel Adey said,
“We cannot thank River Teign Rowing Club, friends and family and other supporters enough for their generosity and support.”
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