A record 92 crews will head to the Dorset coast on Saturday 6 June when the Cornish Pilot Gig Association Mixed Grand Prix comes to the Weymouth and Portland National Sailing Academy, bringing one of the biggest weekends in the local gig rowing calendar and a welcome boost for the visitor economy.
Run by the CPGA and hosted by WPNSA, the championship is being supported by both Weymouth Rowing Club and Portland Gig Rowing Club, highlighting the strength of the local gig rowing community.
The Mixed Grand Prix has previously been held at Newtons Cove, but this year’s record entry has led to the move to WPNSA, where the larger venue can provide the space and facilities needed for an event of this size.
The championship is expected to bring more than 640 competitors onto the water, alongside officials, volunteers and supporters travelling from across the UK and beyond. Races will be approximately 2.5km long, with a fleet of loan boats provided for visiting crews.
In gig racing, the mixed format sees crews made up of three women and three open rowers, plus a coxswain. As rowing is a non-contact sport, it provides the perfect opportunity for men and women to compete together in the same boat. For some club members, it also offers the chance to race alongside family members, creating special memories on the water.
Claire Tripp, CPGA General Manager, said: “The response to this year’s Mixed Grand Prix has been exceptional and shows the continued strength and appeal of Cornish pilot gig rowing. WPNSA provides an outstanding setting for an event of this scale and we are very grateful for the support of the venue, Weymouth Rowing Club and Portland Gig Rowing Club in helping us deliver what promises to be a fantastic championship.”
Together, the two local clubs represent a thriving Cornish pilot gig rowing community, combining experience, competitive spirit and a shared commitment to growing the sport.
Michael Sinclair, Chair of Portland Gig Rowing Club, said: “We are delighted to welcome the gig rowing community to WPNSA. We are very fortunate to be based at the Academy and are looking forward to sharing this amazing facility with clubs from across the country and beyond. Portland Marina is a superb base for launching, training and encouraging gig racing as a sport.”
The excitement continues on Sunday when Weymouth Rowing Club brings racing back to Newtons Cove for its 25th anniversary celebration and Jurassic League Regatta.
The day will combine celebration and competitive racing on the club’s home waters, with additional invited crews and special recognition for Sir Tristan, the club’s original wooden gig launched in 2001 and still rowing today.
Heddon Johnson, President of Weymouth Rowing Club, said: “It is especially exciting to be part of such a major weekend of gig rowing in our 25th year. After Saturday’s championship action in Portland, it will be very special to welcome invited crews back to Newtons Cove on Sunday to race on our home waters and celebrate this milestone. We are also very grateful to Weymouth Sailing Club for its support in helping us host crews for the anniversary event.”
