Under 16 Gig Championships 2013

A total of 22 crews took to the water at Newquay on Sunday 4^th August to contest the 2013 Under 16 Gig Championships. In contrast to the previous days bright sunshine, the rain came down but a favourable wind made for fair sea conditions for the young rowers.

Several strong crews were fielded from all over the South West, looking to take the title from 2012 winners Cadgwith. This year there was a noticeable increase in the number of girls competing, with several all girls crews competing for the female trophy. Cadgwith took this title for the second year running when their girls crew finished 11^th overall after coming 3^rd in the plate final. Cotehele Quay finished 7^th overall to win the mixed shield which must see 3 male and 3 female rowers in the team. Coverack B took the plate race cup home. This year also saw some strong B crew performances with Caradon and Cadgwith finishing 5^th and 6^th respectively after facing each other in both the quarter and the semi finals.

There were no surprises in the final line up with strong junior clubs Caradon, Cadgwith, Fowey and Coverack making the 4 boat final, after fielding strong crews consistently this season. Caradon and Cadgwith had faced each other in the previous two races with Caradon posting the fastest times in each round. After a strong start from all crews, Cadgwith and Caradon - 1^st and 2^nd respectively in 2012 - pulled away from the pack, neck and neck up the first leg. Caradon turned first with Cadgwith just behind, Fowey in third and Coverack in 4^th place. Across the second leg which saw a moderate swell, Caradon pulled away, opening their lead before the second mark. They pulled away again down the final leg, finishing the race just over 30 seconds ahead of second placed Cadgwith. Fowey came in third place with their crew of 2 female and 4 male rowers, with Coverack in 4^th place completing the final line up.

2013 Winners Caradon

A good crowd of spectators braved the rain to cheer on the young rowers both from the harbour and the tripper boats - great to see such support for the future of the sport. Thanks to Newquay RC and the CPGA for hosting a great day. The highlight of the day had to be Bridport Gig Club all having great fun warming up on the beach to the ‘Rocky’ theme tune!

The next junior championship is the under 14s on the 25^th August at Hayle Pool.

final results