Author: Lorraine Slade

This year’s race day in lieu of the G&S regatta (for now) was originally set for July. However, the weather was against us (strong winds and rain in July – why are we surprised?) and we had to postpone to September.

About 70 members turned up on the day to race, help and generally enjoy a burger. All with an excellent view of the scratch crews sprinting, limping but always somehow, crossing the line. The winners were? Well – it’s hard to remember. But they were pleased and got pots!

Another fab weekend in Swanage, gig rowing with the very hospitable Swanage Sea Rowing Club.

Gig rowing takes a bit of getting used to but once in the zone it’s remarkably hypnotic. Not to mention being great exercise. Mind you, any health benefits are probably swiftly cancelled out by fish and chips and cooked breakfasts, along with liquid refreshment in the evenings.

This year the sea conditions enabled a row out to the chalk coastline just out of the bay along towards Old Harry Rocks bringing with it an interesting geology and botany lesson as well.

Thank you to Tom for organizing and to everyone who came along to make this another great GGBC-on-tour experience. Can’t wait for next time.

A great day of crazy racing, hand brake turns and general fun!

Not this one but it looked just like it .. probably. We only saw it’s head!

For the second time Goring Gap Boat Club hosted a Waterside Festival for local charity Sport in Mind on a beautiful summer’s day. Sport in Mind started in Reading 13 years ago and now operates in many parts of the south of England, providing sports and physical activity opportunities to aid recovery from mental health problems.

GGBC volunteers supported the event by coxing and crewing the Charles Stanley boats, launching the canoes, paddle boards and Water Vole and providing teas, coffees and cakes for all to enjoy. The Waterside Festival provided the chance to enjoy a day in a lovely setting beside the river with the opportunity to try rowing, canoeing and paddle boarding. About 25-30 people came along and had a wonderful time on the river. And we saw an otter!