The Cornish Pilot Gig Association (CPGA) is proud to announce the return of the Junior International Championships, on Sunday 5th October 2025 at Queen Anne’s Battery, Plymouth, thanks to generous support from Go South West, the parent company of Plymouth City Bus and Cornwall Go Bus.
The event, now in its second year, is designed to provide junior gig rowers from across the UK and internationally with a high-profile platform to compete, develop, and connect within the sport. Due to ongoing refurbishment at Mount Batten Watersports & Activities Centre, the event has been relocated. The 2025 Junior International Championships will be held on the opposite bank at the impressive Queen Anne’s Battery marina, hosted by the Royal Western Yacht Club in association with Coxside Gig Club, with racing still taking place in the Cattewater.
“We are absolutely delighted to welcome the Junior International Championships to Queen Anne’s Battery,” said Alex Warner, Marina Manager of MDL Marinas. “It’s a fantastic opportunity to support youth sport, especially one so rooted in our maritime heritage. The atmosphere in the marina will be buzzing with energy, and we can’t wait to see the next generation of gig rowers take to the water right in the heart of Plymouth.”
Young athletes will compete in a seeding round followed by two competitive heats to determine final rankings. Medals will be awarded in accordance with CPGA racing rules across the following categories:
– U14 Open, Girls, Mixed, and Free
– U16 Open, Girls, Mixed, and Free
Composite crews will be permitted to encourage wider participation, particularly from smaller or neighbouring clubs who wish to enter jointly.
Richard Stevens, Managing Director of Go South West, said: “Supporting this championship reflects our deep connection with the local community and our passion for youth engagement. These young rowers are inspiring, and it’s brilliant to see such a vibrant, inclusive event bringing clubs together from all over the UK and beyond.”
The Junior International Championships aims to broaden participation and give young people a platform for competition and opportunity for camaraderie.
“Following extensive consultation across the gig rowing community, it became clear that juniors needed more dedicated events,” said Phoebe Millar, Chair of the Cornish Pilot Gig Association. “We are incredibly proud to offer a championship that not only supports young athletes but also strengthens club development and long-term engagement in the sport.”
Further information, including race itineraries and registration details, can be found via the Events Directory on the CPGA website.