Portishead Pilot Gig Club saw their success from last year continue when they hosted the Somerset 525 for the second year in a row. A virtual rowing competition, offering competitors a choice of 3 races over 3 days - 5k, 2k and 500m, which saw over 321 entrants take part from 25 countries with most competitors taking part in all 3 distances. 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, Black Horse, Silicone 4 Systems, Astron, T and T Electrical, Wildfire Property , Macron, Butchers Block, Mathison and Portishead Quay Marinas. During the weekend, over 1,261,000 meters were rowed and 361 personal and season bests were achieved – more than 2021.
“We were astounded by the amount of competitors coming back from last year and the standard of competition”, said Isobel Jones, part of the Somerset 525 organising committee. “The times have been incredible. We even saw an unconfirmed British Record in the Women’s Masters category by one of our most inspirational competitors Val who is 96. Others have broken years old PB’s, and have said the 525 has kept people motivated 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 96! It just shows what a great and inclusive sport rowing is.”
The competition has raised nearly £2500 for the club. “We are able to put the money to buy a Gig which is much needed as we are increasing our membership. “ Said Isobel.
Portishead did well, taking several medals in the team competitions. Overall it was a great success, raising over £2000 for the club which will help fund oar storage. We are already looking forward to 2023 - so get that training in!
