Newhaven Gig Rowing Club ready for return to the water

British Rowing, and the Cornish Pilot Gig Association (the regulating body for the sport), have confirmed that all rowing can commence with strict safety guidelines in place.

NGRC would like to get more people involved in the sport and help teach people how to row efficiently. Gig rowing is one of the fastest growing sports in the UK, and whether you are a junior (11-16), adult (17-39), veteran (40-49), super-veteran (50-59) or Masters (60+) there is a space for you.

The club’s publicity officer and coxswain Rachel Beardsworth said: “NGRC coxswains are extremely excited to be getting crews back out on the water, sharing knowledge, help teach and improve skills, but also having fun, stopping off at the beach, and spotting wildlife. In the past few years, we have seen dolphins up close while at sea, and have had seals coming to play with us as we row up the river.”

Newhaven Gig Rowing Club was started four years ago, by one inspirational Newhaven man who gave Cornish Pilot Gig rowing a go whilst on holiday. He brought the idea back to Newhaven and try it out on the Ouse. Scroll forwards four years and NGRC have become a local Charity with the express purpose of having community rowing at its heart.

The club became a member of CPGA which allowed race rowing to take off for those who fancied a bit of a challenge.

Beadsworth said: “In 2019 we took part in the World Pilot Gig Championships and weren’t last.

“This year the championships were understandably cancelled. Fingers crossed for next Year…Maybe you could be racing in the world championships with us?”

If you are interested in learning to row and want to find out more information, please visit our website www.ngrc.co.uk

Beardsworth added: “We do ask that a health questionnaire is fully filled in and sent back in advance for safety reasons.

“Once this has been passed you can then book onto maiden voyage where you will be taught the basics by the side of pontoon, then go off for your first row.

“This session is approx. 90 mins. All this for only £5. Each row after this is only £3.”

If you have any questions, contact the club via email - [email protected] who will be able to help you.