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The Cornish Pilot Gig is a traditional clinker built boat, 32ft long with a 4ft 10in beam, made of Cornish narrow leaf elm.
They were originally used to take Pilots out to vessels coming off the Atlantic, first crew there got the job. Today the Gig is raced for "Pleasure" with Clubs established all around the coast of Cornwall. As you watch the Gigs race you will see something unique to Cornwall and the Isles of Scilly. It is a sport which Cornish people are particularly proud of, a sport with a great history and tradition which is thriving and growing in Cornwall today. The Pilot Gig was the 18th Century equivalent to the speed boat, with six rowers reaching speeds of 8-9 knots. They are quite capable of going to sea in any weather, and have often done so, even for racing.
Gigs have in the past been used as lifeboats. Unlike most sports which can finance their own development by admission charges at the gate, Cornish Pilot Gig Clubs depend totally on whatever funds might be raised by a keen body of volunteers. Despite this difficulty, in recent years it has become the fastest growing sport in Cornwall, and quite probably in the UK.
From Saltash to Sennen throughout the County every weekend from April to September there is racing. In May there is the World Championships on the Isles of Scilly.
The Gig clubs are as follows: |
