Yarmouth Rowers Make Waves at Tudor Challenge

Yarmouth Gig Rowing Club have taken top honours in their class — and a major trophy — at the prestigious Tudor Challenge rowing race in Langstone Harbour.

The 10-mile fixed-seat event, launched by Tudor Sailing Club in 2022, has quickly become a highlight in the regional rowing calendar, attracting crews from across the UK and even Spain.

This year’s race saw 25 boats tackle the winding course in glorious sunshine, including Yarmouth’s Cornish Pilot Gig Sea Spirit with its seven-man crew.

Starting in the final staggered group, they quickly left the other Pilot Gigs behind and began reeling in the rest of the field.

By halfway near Hayling Island Bridge, the heat was taking its toll — but the return leg brought a new challenge.

A gusting Force 5 south-westerly wind against an ebbing tide created choppy conditions, which the experienced crew handled with determination.

By the finish, Sea Spirit had overtaken all but one boat — despite some having a 15-minute head start. On handicap, Yarmouth achieved:

• Fastest Pilot Gig – First in Class

• Winner of the ‘Tudor Relic’ Trophy (Fastest Men’s Vets Crew, all over 55)

• Second overall, in a time of 1 hour 52 minutes

  
  

“It was a great day out and a fantastic crew effort,” said Chairman and coxswain Keith Campbell.

“Conditions in the second half were challenging, but not unusual for us training in the Hurst Narrows.

"For a small Isle of Wight club, this continues a very successful season.”