ROWING is set to make a return to Strangford Lough. An urgent call has been issued to all rowing enthusiasts who want to participate in gig racing to contact the recently formed Strangford Lough Pilot Gig Club.
It aims to revive this historical activity in the area and initially intends to buy two practice boats to get people on the water as quickly as possible. The club’s longer term aim is to build a number of these beautiful craft to international competition standard.
Group chairman, Brian Black, said gig racing has worked elsewhere and believes if there is sufficient support, it can make it happen on Strangford Lough.
He continued: “Last year, a group from Lyme Regis brought their gigs to the lough and over 100 local people had a chance to try their skills at rowing and thoroughly enjoyed it.”
Another key player in the newly-form club is Sian Maxwell who sees wider benefits.
“Looking ahead, we can see Strangford Lough becoming a venue for international gig racing with significant benefits for the tourism industry and local communities,” she continued.
“In the Scilly Isles, the annual gig racing festival is so attractive to spectators that the population of the islands doubles during the event.”
The new club admits that while securing the necessary funding will be a major challenge, the team is already working on this. For now, the priority is to get engagement from people of all ages and abilities who are interested in gig racing and willing to help in bringing the idea into reality.
Mr. Black added: “Although the club is currently based in Strangford village, we want to involve communities around the lough and along the neighbouring coastline.
“As a first step, we invite everyone to visit our website where they can view the highlights of last year’s test run with the Lyme Regis club and get in touch with us to register their support,” he said.
“When we see how people respond, the next step will be to hold a public meeting to exchange ideas and move forward with all speed.”
The club’s website address is www.strangfordloughgigclub.co.uk, while the email contact is HonSecSLPGC@aol.com.