See you on the water with Exmouth Gig Club

On Easter Saturday, a welcome, familiar sight appeared on the waters around Exmouth.
After an absence of over 12 months, the striking orange and black colours of ‘Avocet’, Exmouth’s Pilot Gig boat, were seen off the shore for the first time since March 2020.
In a year of turbulence and uncertainty, it was fantastic to welcome back another small component in our normal way of life.
The pandemic restrictions had resulted in a complete stop to rowing last year, so all rowers and coxes were delighted to be back on the water.
“With rowing conditions generally good we were able to get two rows out,” said club chairman Jay Lambe.
“This is good news for the Club and it was great for our rowers and coxes to be out in the gig again. There was terrific camaraderie and it was a relief to see we hadn’t forgotten how to row.
“We conformed to stringent Covid protection measures and Government guidelines for sports activities. It all meant that in the boat and on-shore, crews had to wear masks and gloves, and take on extra boat cleaning activities, although once at sea, masks could be removed.”
Exmouth Pilot Gig Club is based on Shelley Beach and rows throughout the year, for fun, fitness and racing.
“Although we will be making a slow start back, and as Covid restrictions ease further, we are looking forward to even more Club activity as the Spring and Summer progress,” added Jay.
While the club is not yet welcoming beginners to join due to Covid, keep an eye on the website for updated information and you can book an intro session to be contacted when new members can give the sport a try.
Avocet is launched from the dinghy park, along from the Sailing Club, at Shelly Beach. New members are given full instructions on the water and crews for these session are balanced with experienced rowers to ensure safety.
For more information check out their website at www.exmouthgigclub.com