Bermuda International Gig Regatta Concluded
The Bermuda Pilot Gig Club’s fourth International Gig Regatta concluded, with approximately 70 visiting rowers taking part in the event alongside local rowers.
A spokesperson said, “The Bermuda Pilot Gig Club [BPGC] proudly hosted its fourth Bermuda International Regatta, an event that brought together pilot gig rowing enthusiasts and supporters from both local and international communities for a week of thrilling races, camaraderie, and community spirit. Despite the challenges posed by the remnants of Oscar last Wednesday, which cancelled the second day of racing due to the heavy winds and rains, the event showcased the resilience and passion of the rowing community.
“The BPGC extends heartfelt gratitude to its event sponsors, with special thanks to The Bermuda Tourism Authority as the primary sponsor, along with Chubb, Axis, Sticks and Stones, Paragon Brokers, Butterfield & Vallis and Belco. Thanks also to John Barritt & Son for keeping participants hydrated and to William Lawrence of Boatport for providing a floating dock for our last day of racing in St. George’s.
“Our sincere appreciation goes to all of the rowers who participated, some participating with crew members they had never rowed with previously. Our local Bermuda Pilot Gig Club rowers from Spanish Point, St. George’s, and Boaz Island, as well as the 70 visiting rowers from the UK, including teams from Yealm, St. Agnes, Weymouth, Bude, Dartmouth, Clevedon, Swanage, Boscastle & Crackington, Tamar River, West London and London Cornish. The regatta comprised two days of competitive and spirited races. In complete contrast to the stormy seas on the first day of racing in Mangrove Bay, all participants were treated to a gorgeous day in the sunshine with smooth rowing conditions on the water in St. George’s Harbour on Sunday. From tempest to sunshine, the rowers displayed incredible dedication, exceptional skill and teamwork, deserving a round of applause for their performance.
“Unfortunately, the second day of racing had to be cancelled due to the weather conditions. Not to be dampened by the weather outside, the BPGC rallied to put on a team quiz.
“Wednesday’s Spanish Point Challenge Quizzscapades
“Winners: Lost in the Triangle – Katherine O’Brien, Ben Penfold, Natalia Pailakova, David Cox, Ann Watkins, with special guest Chris Hardy
“Saturday’s St. George’s Sprint Finale [1,500 meters]
Women’s Results:
“1. Top Finishers: Seas The Day – Hillary Williams, Hattie Armstrong, Joanne Rogers, Pam Mahoney, Alex Amat, Laura Lyons with Cox Dave Stubbs
“2. Runners-Up: Tamar River – Christie Ash, Evie Burfoot, Claire-Louise Burke, Angela Copeland, Clare Lanyon-Webb, Leonie Timmins with Cox Jerry Boaden
“3. Plate Winners: The Dirty Oars – Julia Hawkins, Nina Paton, Thespina Rose, Hatty Stuckes, Ruth Sudlow, Sandra Touschner with Cox Roger Gillett
Men’s Results:
“1. Top Finishers: Triangle 3 – Simon Burke, Leigh Morden, James Neep, Robert Jeffrey, Rob Guy, Steve McArdle with Cox Jody Dennett
“2. Runners-Up: Triangle 1 – Christopher Hastings, Gary Phillips, Roger Woolridge, Andrew Jackson, Jerry Boaden, Ian Fulton with Cox Richard Hudson”
“The reward from all the training came together as we fought hard in each race. Both days were very close and could have gone the other way as we were facing very strong teams. We kept our heads in the boat, trusted our cox and believed we could catch, gain water and pull away. And we did. Knackered but so happy!” — Alex Amat, member of the women’s crew ‘Seas the Day’
“This year’s Bermuda International Gig Regatta highlighted the incredible teamwork and camaraderie of our rowing community, both local and international. The event would not have been possible without the invaluable efforts of our dedicated volunteers, who managed both visible and behind-the-scenes tasks. Our gratitude goes to the Sandys Boat Club, Spanish Point Boat Club, and the East End Mini Yacht Club for being gracious event hosts. Special thanks to the Regatta Committee for their tireless work in making this event a success. We look forward to welcoming everyone back in 2026,” said Chris Hardy, Chairperson of the BPGC International Regatta
Thank you very much for a fantastic regatta.
Came away with lots of memories, raced in a crew with Bude, which was just amazing, and made new friends.
We are very proud of the mens crew winning both race days and our ladies’ crews coming second overall on both days.
Thank you again for your hard work, especially all the lovely volunteers.
Definitely recommend this regatta to anyone that wants to row in a beautiful location with lots of fun thrown in.