Junior rowers excel in championships

Junior members of Cotehele Quay Gig Club succeeded at an international competition in Plymouth, entering the most crews.

Cotehele Quay Gig Club is celebrating a fantastic day of racing at the Junior International Championships, held at Queen Anne’s Battery, on Sunday, October 11.

Sheila Snellgrove, club chair, said: “Our junior rowers delivered some outstanding performances.

“Our club fielded four junior crews, the highest number of crews entered by any club at the championships — a tremendous achievement in itself and a testament to the strength and enthusiasm of our junior section.

Our under-16 open crew secured first place in their category, while the under-16 girls crew put in an excellent performance to finish third in their category.

“We also entered two under-14 mixed crews, one of which included rowers from Fowey, giving our younger athletes valuable experience of competing at this level.

“All four crews performed exceptionally well, demonstrating determination, teamwork and a real passion for gig rowing. Their efforts reflect the commitment and hard work that go into training throughout the year.”

Behind every successful crew is a dedicated support team, and Sheila said the club was extremely grateful to its coxes and coaches, Nicola Mathieson, Sam Rogers, Liz Shaw, Andy Wiltshire and Steve Fox, for the time, encouragement and expertise they give to the juniors.

Sheila added: “As a club, we are immensely proud of every one of our junior rowers. Their achievements at the championships are a wonderful reward for their hard work and dedication and we look forward to seeing them continue to develop and enjoy their rowing. We wish to say a huge well done to all our juniors and everyone who supports them.”

In recognition of the commitment, determination and skill of these young rowers, Samworth’s Brothers has awarded the club £12,000 towards a new wooden gig, so that many more local young people can enjoy gig rowing.