Barnstaple and Torridge Pilot Gig Clubs both sent crews to Saltash on Saturday to take part in Caradon Gig clubs annual regatta. Normally this is a Vets and Mixed crew event over two days, but for technical reasons this year it was an ‘all comers’ event. Although the sky was overcast, winds were light and the rain held off all day so conditions were good for rowing.
The start line was next to Brunel railway bridge, and the first leg was a long haul up the Tamar to the first buoy for a stroke side turn, quickly followed by two more stroke side turns until the boats were heading back to the finish line at the rail bridge again. Saltash Town fete was on at the same time, leading to a carnival atmosphere along the shoreline with a multitude of colourful stalls, children’s attractions and live music from Saltash town band and local pop groups and singers.
There were 26 boats taking part from many Cornish and Devon Clubs; Barnstaple and Torridge entered one boat each. Individual race results were as follows:
| Torridge | Barnstaple | |
|---|---|---|
| Ladies A | 4th, heat 2 | 8th, heat 2 |
| Men's A | 14th, heat 1 | 8th, heat 2 |
| Ladies B | 10th, heat 1 | 10th, heat 2 |
| Mens B | 12th, heat 1 | 13th, heat 2 |
| Ladies C | 10th, heat 1 | Did Not Enter |
| Men's C | 4th, heat 1 | Did Not Enter |
| Ladies Vets | 4th, heat 1 | 6th, heat 2 |
| Men's Vets | 4th, heat 1 | 5th, heat 2 |
Caradon Gig club excelled on their home waters, winning seven out of eleven races, and placed in the top four for the four remaining races. All of the rowers taking part enjoyed a good days racing with lots of shoreside entertainment as well, so a good day was had by all.