Mounts Bay Regatta Returns

On Saturday 28th June, Mounts Bay Gig Club welcomed 38 clubs to the return of their much-loved annual regatta. After a misty start, that left St Michael’s Mount shrouded in atmospheric mystery, the skies slowly cleared, making way for a busy day of racing at Marazion.

Photo credit: Charlotte Stevens

With the iconic Mount looming in and out of view throughout the morning, the backdrop was every bit as dramatic as the racing that unfolded on the water. Tightly contested heats led to several high-octane clashes at the buoy turns, with oars clashing and crews jostling for the inside line.

Photo credit: Charlotte Stevens

On the results sheet, Caradon Gig Club impressed across the board, taking home victories in Women’s A, Women’s B, Women’s Vets, and Mixed races. Falmouth showed their strength in both Open A and Open B categories. Newquay delivered consistent results across categories and reclaimed the overall title they last won in 2023.

Photo credit: Charlotte Stevens

There was strong competition in the junior categories, too, with River Fowey securing a win in the Under 16 category and Cotehele Quay winning the Under 14 category. Hosts Mount’s Bay delivered fantastic performances of their own, finishing second in both junior races – a proud moment for the home crowd.

Appledore won the Open Vets, while Helford took the win in the Women’s Super Vets.

The regatta also introduced two new trophies this year:

• The Ellis Cup, donated by members Sam and Mike Ellis, was awarded to Ilfracombe, winners of the overall Super Vets category.
• The Bagnall Trophy, generously donated by Paul and Penny Bagnall, went to Mylor & Flushing, for winning the new Masters category.

Photo credit: Charlotte Stevens

Behind the scenes, the regatta was a showcase of Mounts Bay’s club spirit and community strength. From the water team managing a marathon session of starting, umpiring, and finishing races, to the Race HQ and results crew, beach and road marshal gangs, raffle and tombola teams, and the mighty catering operation (complete with a standout cake display), the event ran with military precision and a warm welcome.

Photo credit: Charlotte Stevens

The day finished on a high with a celebration at the gig shed, where DJ Owen got the post-race party started, and local legends The Tregony Teachers kept the dancefloor busy late into the night.