The inaugural Somerset 525 proves to be a winner!
Portishead Pilot Gig Club put themselves firmly on the rowing map this weekend, March 26 – 28th, when they hosted the Somerset 525 – a virtual rowing competition which saw over 320 entrants take part from 25 countries. From Pakistan to Poland, America to Australia rowers competed in a choice of 5k, 2k and 500m races; whilst some hardy rowers took part in all 3. There were options for adaptive rowers and juniors too so everyone was catered for.
Rowers raced at home on a Concept 2 erg and submitted times and screenshots at the end of each day. Winners were announced on Sunday night via facebook. Local competition was rife with Bristol Pilot Gig Club, Clevedon Gig Club and Clevedon Coastal and of course Portishead all entering individual rowers and teams in most age categories. Prizes were provided by a range of local sponsors, BlockHouse Designs, Wildfire Property , Square Peg Mortgages and Portishead Quay Marinas. During the weekend, over 1,261,000 meters were rowed and 361 personal and season bests were achieved.
“We were astounded by the amount of competitors taking part and the standard of competition”, said Isobel Jones, part of the Somerset 525 organising committee. “We thought we might get 60 – 80 entries, mostly from our local teams, but with lockdown and people not able to physically row, we saw the entries creep up every day. People have said they have used this as motivation to keep up their fitness and it’s been so encouraging to see so many from around the world. We’ve had such a range of ages too, from 12 to 92! It just shows what a great and inclusive sport rowing is.”
The competition has raised nearly £3000 for the club. “We decided to run the Somerset 525 as we needed to buy a cover for one our gigs, Odessa. However, we’ve also been able to raise enough money to pay for repairs to a second hand gig which will mean we can bring more new rowers into the club. “ Said Isobel.
Portishead did well, taking several medals, notably Nancy Averis, 3rd place in the Women’s 5k Vets, Tom Whitmore 3rd in the Men’s 500m Vets, Klara Anstey 2nd in the 500m Women’s vets and 3rd in the Women’s 2k vets. Overall it was a great success, and plans are definitely afloat to run it for a second year in 2022.
