Dartmouth Pilot Gig Shelter

Aim

I'm lucky to row in some of the most beautiful wooden pilot gig boats. In order for them to remain seaworthy, they need a shelter.

Two and a half years ago we moved to Dartmouth to begin a new chapter of our lives. As soon as I saw people rowing on the river here, I knew that I had to find a way to be involved. Just over a year ago I was given the opportunity to have a row in a wooden pilot gig boat. It felt such a privilege, and I immediately fell in love (with the rowing, and the boat!). 

So I joined The Dart Gig Club and haven't stopped rowing since.

Within the club we have a lot of new rowers of all ages. The club is incredibly inclusive and dedicated to ensuring that everyone has the chance to row, no matter their reasons, be it recreational, social or purely competitive. But to ensure we're able to continue to offer this opportunity we have to make sure our boats remain safe and seaworthy. And the one surefire way to guarantee this is to store them properly, in between rows. 

Up until the end of last year, the dream of having a purpose built shelter for them seemed no more than just that. But at last, with plans approved we've broken ground and begun to build a permanent home for them, near enough to the water's edge that we can pull them out of the river and get them under cover, and most importantly out of the weather, be it baking sun or sleet and snow. Which means the gigs will last a lot longer, and therefore enable us to continue to get more folk on the water. We're well aware that it's going to take a bit more money to finish this project.

So this Friday (weather permitting! Or we'll pick the next weather window) the whole club is coming together to row for twenty six hours. It'll involve much determination, many cups of tea, a lot of sandwiches and cake, and no doubt quite a few sleeping bags! I'm delighted to be taking part, and will be rowing for two hours straight along the River Dart. (I'll also be rowing in the same team with my son Jolly. Super excited as it'll be the first time we've ever rowed together!).

I'm well aware, that we're not saving cats, or a rare species of beetle, or indeed the planet! But as a club we are trying to support our community here in Dartmouth by offering the opportunity for anybody - no matter age or experience - the chance to enjoy this gorgeous sport called gig rowing.   

If you fancy supporting us (no matter how small) I'd be beyond grateful.

With love and thanks,

Anna xx

This project successfully funded on 24th January 2023