The World Pilot Gig Championships get under way on Scilly on 2nd May, and for the fourth consecutive year Sharp’s Brewery will be the headline sponsor.
Some of the crews line up at the World Pilot Gig Championships. Photograph: GB Photography
The event, which runs for three days over the bank holiday weekend, sees more than 130 crews from all over the world compete.
The world championships were first held in 1990, attracting a few crews from Cornwall. But in the intervening years the amount of pilot gigs attending has steadily increased.
As well as supporting the championships, Sharp’s are long-term sponsors of local gig rowing clubs along the North Coast of Cornwall. These include Rock and Padstow, who row on the River Camel estuary, often heading over the Doom Bar, where many a ship has foundered.
Just along the coast, Sharp’s supports Port Isaac Rowing Club. Depending on the tide, they head for Port Quin or towards Donkey Hole, or, during wild weather, for the gig based at Wadebridge to row on the River Camel.
Sharp’s help these clubs to fund gig refurbishments, new gig covers, and signage, as well as support land-based activity at local regattas and social events.
Tradition, teamwork, and endurance
“Gig rowing is a brilliant team sport that is integral to both the history of Cornwall and to our contemporary culture,” said Oli Carter, business development manager at Sharp’s Brewery.
“We are passionate about supporting this iconic sporting event, which brings together crews from around the world to compete in the spirit of tradition, teamwork, and endurance. We are so delighted to be on board yet again this year.
“Through many of our brands, we celebrate the connection between land and sea, just as gig rowers have for generations. We look forward to an unforgettable weekend of racing, camaraderie, and shared moments on the water.”
Tristan Hick, chairman of the World Pilot Gig Championships, added: “We’re thrilled to have Sharp’s Brewing Co as a lead sponsor for the 2025 Isles of Scilly World Pilot Gig Championships.
“Their support is invaluable in helping us bring this event to life, uniting rowers and spectators from near and far. With their passion for the sport and our community, we’re set for another unforgettable year of racing.”
