Rescue On The Yealm

On a typical Saturday morning training session, cox Lizzie Stone was running a junior session. Her crew consisted of five juniors with Beth McClements rowing in the bow. Beth is a newly qualified cox, having completed her CPGA Introduction to Coxing – Level 1 course in April. As they practised their rowing manoeuvres on the River Yealm, the crew was unexpectedly called into action for a real-life rescue.

While rowing along the river, they were alerted by a passerby on the bank, urgently trying to get their attention. Initially waving back in a friendly gesture, the crew quickly realised the severity of the situation. A man and his dog were stranded on the slippery, wet rocks with no way out due to the high tide. The dog had chased a ball over the edge and couldn’t get back, the owner had entered the water and swam to the dog’s rescue. Both were now stuck. 

Without hesitation, Lizzie turned the gig around and navigated the crew towards the rocks, ensuring they did not come into contact with the land. The man lifted his dog into the boat, and with Beth’s assistance, the owner climbed in as well.

The crew transported the cold and wet casualties back to Noss Hard, where they were reunited with their family. Both the man and his dog had suffered only a few scratches from the rocks, but were otherwise unharmed. 

Participation and Engagement Lead for the CPGA, Nick George said, “Whilst it is human nature to want to help others, we recommend that all situations are carefully assessed before coxswains decide to assist. If responding would place a crew in any danger, we recommend calling 111 / 999 and asking for the RNLI or Coastguard. Once the call has been placed, crews can standby to be of assistance should they be requested to do so. A huge well done to  Lizzie, Beth, and the junior crew members for making safe decisions and helping someone in need.”