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.
Newquay Easter Egg-stravaganza rescheduled due to weather
MP meets Newquay sports clubs to discuss future of facilities
Final Skybus flight from Newquay to Gatwick as subsidised route ends early
Free interactive railway exhibition train to visit Newquay station
Surf statue takes shape on Newquay’s Killacourt
Candidates announced for Newquay by-election
Hotel Victoria in Newquay to reopen with new name
Gas network upgrades planned for Newquay
Newquay Town Council reports vandalism at public facilities
New hedgehog hospital opens near Newquay after community funding drive
Newquay boxer Brad Pauls eyes international middleweight title after win
Plans submitted to replace Crantock Surf Life Saving Club hut
Newquay charity reuses 10,000 wetsuits to cut waste and support young people
Legal graffiti wall project to support artists and help cut vandalism
Newquay surf shop owner retires after nearly 57 years
Atlantic Hotel in Newquay bought by Cornwall Hotel Collection
Oscar Wilde classic brought to life in Newquay
Paws on the Beach returns to Watergate Bay this April
Major milestone reached in build of new high street and supermarket at Nansledan
Newquay AFC held as town sides battle for points across football, rugby and hockey