Prestigious Atkinson gig race around Newquay coastline this weekend

One of Newquay's most highly regarded pilot gig races is taking place this weekend, as rowers prepare to compete for the Atkinson Trophy.

The long-running race, organised by Newquay Rowing Club, will be held on Saturday evening (26 July) from 7.20pm. Crews will launch from the Gannel estuary, racing a 3.2-nautical mile course out to sea, across Fistral Bay and around the Towan Headland and the Gazzel, before finishing at Newquay Harbour.

The event takes place on the high spring tide, with four gigs being towed by boat round to the starting point in the Gannel river. Once lined up, the boats will race back along the dramatic coastline, returning to Newquay Rowing Club’s home waters.

The Atkinson Trophy was donated in the 1960s by Jack Atkinson, a well-known local jeweller and strong supporter of the club. Today, the race remains one of the standout events on the club’s calendar, known for its challenging route and iconic Newquay scenery.