The boom in a centuries-old coastal sport is bringing new energy and camaraderie to coastal communities.
Pilot gig rowing—rooted in a tradition dating back to the 18th century—originated from the race to deliver harbour pilots to incoming ships, with the first boat to reach the vessel earning the fee.
Today, that legacy lives on through a vibrant and growing network of rowing clubs, including the Swanage Sea Rowing Club (SSRC) in Dorset, which is soon to celebrate its 25th anniversary.
James Allen, former treasurer and instructor at SSRC, said: "Swanage Sea Rowing Club is seeing record membership.
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"There is a growing interest in gig rowing in our area because many out-of-town newcomers are looking to try something different.
"We run courses throughout the year and are generally booked up.
"I show them the basic skills of gig rowing and then pretty much everyone stays on, but they go into one of two sections of the club, either social rowing or they join the competitive teams."
Situated in a sheltered bay on the end of the Isle of Purbeck, the club benefits from ideal conditions for year-round rowing.
Club president Adrian Charters said: "Our club has been growing over the last 25 years.
"Swanage is tucked into a sheltered bay which is ideal for all-year-round rowing.
"Interest in the sport really seems to have taken off with people of all ages getting involved as we offer training to local schools, but also to total novices who go onto become very important members of crews.
"We have people from all walks of life, united in improving their health and fitness but also in developing a sense of camaraderie and teamwork."
The club competes in regattas across the south west of England, including the Jurassic League, and further afield at the World and European Championships.
On June 20, SSRC hosted the Super Vets Championship Regatta.
This saw crews aged 50 and above from across the UK compete on a 1.5-mile triangular course within Swanage Bay.
Spectators can enjoy the racing from the shoreline, with refreshments, entertainment, and a carnival atmosphere expected on the day.
Ms Mellor said: "That’s how every race starts in a gig boat; an experience you can’t quite appreciate until you’re there, sitting in the boat surrounded by the ocean and the other clubs you aim to beat.
"It’s addictive.
"Every time I do a regatta, I come out the other end counting down the days till the next one."
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