Cornwall Social Inclusion Fund has provided £5,000 of match funding
Port Isaac Plastic Gig to allow inclusive rowing
Port Isaac, Cornwall, United Kingdom
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Aim
Port Isaac Rowing Club are looking to purchase a plastic gig to allow them to row all year round and support less abled rowers
Who are we?
PIRC is an established club rowing out of the beautiful harbours of Port Isaac, Port Quin and Port Gaverne.
Why are we crowdfunding?
Our project aims to reduce loneliness, improve well-being, and increase community participation among older and less mobile adults in Cornwall by providing safe, supported access to traditional Cornish gig rowing. A new, stable, lighter beginner‑friendly boat will enable us to run dedicated inclusive rowing sessions that are not possible with our current fleet.
Many older adults in our community experience:
reduced mobility or confidence that prevents them from joining mainstream rowing sessions
social isolation following retirement, bereavement, or health changes
limited opportunities for gentle, outdoor physical activity that also offers meaningful social connection
Being part of PIRC is more than just about rowing... it is connecting with other people, feeling included and valued and finding reasons to get outside, get some exercise and being part of something that brings joy.
Without appropriate equipment, these individuals are unable to participate safely in gig rowing — a sport that is culturally significant in Cornwall and proven to support physical and mental wellbeing.
How we’ll spend the money raised
The new plastic boat will allow us to create a regular, ongoing programme specifically for older and less mobile adults, including:
weekly low‑impact rowing sessions
a supported, welcoming environment for beginners
a buddy system pairing new rowers with trained volunteers
social time before and after sessions to build friendships and reduce isolation
opportunities to reconnect with the coastline and community heritage
These sessions will run year‑round when the weather allows for safe rowing conditions.
Community impact
Through this project, participants will experience:
Improved physical wellbeing through gentle, supported exercise
Reduced loneliness through regular social contact and group belonging
Increased confidence and independence as they learn new skills
Enhanced mental wellbeing from time outdoors, connection to nature, and shared achievement
Stronger community ties through participation in a valued Cornish tradition
How you can play your part
There are three simple ways to help us reach our target, and make this project a reality.
1. Make a pledge. Don’t delay if you’re going to support us because momentum is key to our success!
2. Spread the word. Share our project on your social media pages and tell the world to get behind us! The more people we reach, the more support we will get.
3. Fundraise for us. If you want to run your own fundraiser – maybe a sponsored activity or similar – use the 'contact project' button at the top of our page to let us know. Setting up your own page only takes a few minutes and you won’t need any bank details. Just a fun idea!
Funding method
Keep what you raise – this project will receive all pledges made by 12th July 2026 at 3:48pm