In December 2023, a sport wide consultation was launched as part of the Wave of Events project. Whilst the consultation was focused on securing feedback and exploring ideas relating to the CPGA events calendar, it also gave clubs the opportunity to share their perspectives on a range of fronts including the opportunities and challenges currently facing their organisations.
CPGA representatives held sessions in Cornwall, travelling through Devon, Hampshire, Essex and the Isles of Scilly to ensure clubs from all regions had an opportunity to contribute.
Engagements and Participation Officer, Nick George said, “It was really important to speak to clubs face to face and have an open conversation about the direction of the sport. It has been a very interesting process and I hope that the events and support that we are putting in place will allow all rowers more opportunities to row and race safely.”
The consultation took place as part of the ‘Wave of Events’ project, which aims to develop the events calendar of the sport, providing more opportunities for participants to get out on the water and for more spectators to enjoy the spectacle of gig rowing. Through the consultation process clubs have helped to shape the project activities and the direction of the sport as a whole.
Some of the common themes discussed at the consultation events included:
- The need for more Race Officials and a refresh of racing rules and guidance
- The challenge that clubs face in attracting, recruiting and retaining younger rowers
- The difficulty of finding people willing and vehicles suitable for towing gigs to events
- The need for more support for club safety representatives to maintain safe environments and activities for their members
- The desire for more competition opportunities throughout the racing season
- The aspiration to provide equal and more rowing opportunities for all age categories
- The need for more qualified and experienced coxes on the rowing and racing circuit
Events Lead Dylan Jane said, “It was great to get out and meet as many members of the gig rowing community as possible over the winter months. The valuable feedback provided by clubs has helped to shape the Wave of Events project and we have drawn on these ideas to develop a number of exciting events and activities, which are due to be announced soon”.
Photo credit: G&B Gig Photography