Lyme Regis Regatta
Lyme Regis Regatta
Two crews and a loyal group of supporters ventured to the Gig Racing Regatta at Lyme Regis on Sunday 14th August. Cornish Gig regulations only permit wooden boats, so being unable to enter "Alma", our GRP boat, Sidmouth borrowed a wooden gig for the mens and ladies events, courtesy of Lyme Regis. Rowing against four feet waves and a stiff wind in an unfamiliar boat proved to be a useful taster for open sea gig racing in the future.
After a disappointing start, the mens crew fought back strongly, to finish 5th in their boat. They had a short time to draw breath and were then rowing back for their second race for those not qualifying for the final! This time they 'surfed' home with the wind and swell behind them, beating Clevedon to come 3rd in their race.
The ladies team had not rowed as a crew together before, nevertheless they rode the waves and came 5th in their heat. Once again, they only had a brief respite before their return race, where they clung on once again, and showed real spirit to finish 5th.
These are early days for the club in terms of regatta racing, but if the club spirit shown by rowers and cheering supporters is anything to go by, the future for Sidmouth Gig Club looks very positive indeed!
