The Tamar Challenge returned in fine style for 2025, delivering ideal racing conditions and the largest fleet the event has seen in its history. On Saturday 1st October, a total of 26 gig crews lined up at Saltash to take on the demanding nine-mile handicap race up the River Tamar, finishing at the picturesque Cotehele Quay. Although some showers did strike in the morning, the rain did move through, leaving crews with mild conditions and no wind for most of the race. With flat water, conditions were close to perfect for such a long and tactical race.
Photo credit: South West Sky Visions
The Tamar Challenge is a well-established fixture in the autumn calendar, testing both endurance and race strategy. Starting beneath the Tamar Bridge at Saltash, crews race upriver in handicap order, with trophies awarded both to the first crew across the finish line and to the fastest crew overall on corrected time.
Photo credit: South West Sky Visions
The River Tamar offers a stunning backdrop for the race, winding through a mix of industrial heritage, wooded riverbanks, and open farmland. Crews pass landmarks such as Pentillie Castle, tranquil riverside cottages, and patches of wildlife-rich estuary, before navigating the scenic bends leading to the historic Cotehele estate. It really is a captivating journey, even when you are pushing yourself to the max!
Photo credit: South West Sky Visions
This year’s race provided plenty of excitement, with strong performances across the fleet. Looe Men’s A delivered an outstanding row, claiming both the first-across-the-line trophy and the fastest overall time, a notable achievement in such a competitive field.
Beyond the results, the day was marked by a fantastic atmosphere both on and off the water. Several crews highlighted the smooth organisation of the event, particularly the logistics of getting boats on and off the water efficiently.
A member of Weymouth Rowing Club commented: “Thank you for a great event. The organisation for getting boats in and out smoothly was amazing. One of the best organised that we’ve been to this year. We’ll be back.”
Coxside Rowing Club also enjoyed a memorable day, with their crews racing a new wooden gig for the first time: “Coxside thoroughly enjoyed the whole day, with great support from teams, excellent organisation and cake. It was our first chance to race our new wooden gig Leviathan.”
Photo credit: South West Sky Visions
The organisers paid tribute to the many volunteers who made the event possible, from starters and logistics teams to health and safety cover, boat recovery crews and the ever-popular catering team waiting at the finish line. Events like the Tamar Challenge simply could not happen without their time and commitment.
Photo credit: South West Sky Visions
With beautiful scenery, challenging racing and a welcoming atmosphere, the Tamar Challenge once again lived up to its reputation as a highlight of the rowing season. Congratulations to all crews who took part, and thanks to everyone involved in making the 2025 event such a success.
Full results can be found here.
With thanks to Lyndsay Bright, Sam Rogers and Sharon Mayer for the photographs.
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