Pulling Together: A New Gig for Ilfracombe

Aim

Help us buy a new Cornish pilot gig so more people can enjoy rowing, compete and be part of our community.

About Ilfracombe Pilot Gig Club

Ilfracombe Pilot Gig Club is a volunteer-run community club bringing people together through the traditional sport of Cornish pilot gig rowing.

Based on the North Devon coast, we welcome rowers of all ages and abilities, from those taking their first strokes to crews competing at events across the South West and the World Pilot Gig Championships.

Our club is built on teamwork, friendship and a shared love of the sea. We believe rowing is about far more than racing, it’s about creating connections, improving wellbeing and giving people a sense of belonging.

Why are we crowdfunding?

We’re fundraising for a new wooden Cornish pilot gig to secure the future of rowing in Ilfracombe and ensure our crews can continue competing at the highest level.

Our original boat, Rapparee, has been at the heart of our club for many years, alongside our second gig, Rogue. Both boats have suffered damage over time, and repair costs are beginning to add up. While we are proud of the history and memories held in these boats, we now need to invest in a new gig to support the future of our growing club.

With the World Pilot Gig Championships on the Isles of Scilly as a major goal, having a reliable racing boat is essential. A new gig will allow our crews to train, compete and continue representing Ilfracombe with pride.

We’re delighted to have secured £8,200 of match funding from Sport England, but we need the support of our community to help us reach the finish line and make this new boat a reality.

Every donation, share and fundraiser will bring us one stroke closer to launching Ilfracombe’s next chapter on the water.

How we’ll spend the money raised

Every penny raised will go towards the purchase of our new Cornish pilot gig.

Funds raised will coverthe build of a traditional wooden gig by an experienced boat builder. 

Our fundraising will contribute towards the boat build, with additional support coming from grants, sponsorship and club fundraising activities.

Your donation will directly help us get more people rowing, racing and enjoying the sea.

Community impact

Ilfracombe Pilot Gig Club is about more than sport. We provide a welcoming space where people of all ages can get active, build friendships and improve their physical and mental wellbeing.

The new gig will help us expand opportunities for all our rowers, encourage more people to take up rowing and strengthen our connection with Ilfracombe’s maritime heritage.

By supporting this project, you’re helping create opportunities for future generations to experience the teamwork, challenge and joy of being part of a rowing crew.

Fundraising Challenges:

12th September 2026 - Great River Race

16 rowers. Two boats. 21.6 miles of the River Thames.

We’re taking on the Great River Race in London with two boats, a huge challenge that we’re training hard together to push ourselves further and raise vital funds for our new wooden Cornish Pilot Gig. Sponsor us today to support our epic journey!

We can’t wait to celebrate with our supporters when our new boat is here!

Funding method

Keep what you raise – this project will receive all pledges made by 22nd November 2026 at 11:00pm