The Cornish Pilot Gig Association held its Annual General Meeting on Sunday 18th January 2026. The meeting took place remotely via Zoom and was chaired by Phoebe Millar, Chair of Trustees. Representatives from 52 member clubs attended, meaning the meeting was quorate and well supported by the membership.
Phoebe Millar presented the Chairperson’s Report, explaining that 2026 is the final year of the current five-year strategic plan for the sport. She outlined how work will begin this year on the development of a new five-year plan, and encouraged clubs to actively engage through the scheduled consultation sessions and questionnaires to help shape the future direction of the Association.
Trustees also delivered the Annual Report for 2025, updating clubs on progress against the five strategic aims. Under the aim to develop the CPGA to meet the demands of expansion, trustees reflected on a phased approach to organisational development, moving from stability and capacity building towards stronger frameworks and policy development, including safeguarding and risk management.
In relation to supporting the development of existing and new clubs, trustees highlighted improved use of the JustGo membership system to strengthen data management, safeguarding oversight and GDPR compliance. A wide programme of club support activity was delivered during 2025, including safeguarding and safety forums, funding and communications workshops and the introduction of Winter Maintenance Week, a programme of supportive sessions. Club In A Box continued to support developing clubs, alongside DBS checks, insurance coordination and regular club communications for member clubs.
Progress against the aim to improve competition at all levels included continued investment in event delivery and infrastructure. The Event In A Box project secured over £74,000 to enhance event equipment and media provision, supporting both competition and public engagement. Despite a challenging weather-affected season, clubs delivered a broad fixtures calendar and championship programme. Feedback from clubs has directly informed the development of a new multi-age championship event planned for 2026, reflecting strong progress in event development.
Under the aim to support individual engagement with the sport, trustees reported growth in GigRower Membership, with overall numbers increasing by more than 10% in 2025 and junior membership rising significantly. Learning and development opportunities continued to expand through coaching and coxing courses, race official training, and the delivery of the first CPGA Junior Rowing Camp, supporting skills development and connections across the gig rowing community.
Trustees also reported progress against the aim to promote the sport and maximise impact. Championship events were broadcast throughout the season via the GigRower YouTube channel, supported by the expanding StreamTeam volunteer network. Engagement activity included The Big Gig Show, agricultural shows, heritage events and national profile opportunities, helping to raise awareness of gig rowing and its communities.
In line with the Constitution, trustee elections were held during the meeting. Ryan Watts was re-appointed as a CPGA Trustee, and five new trustees were elected: Charlotte Bowyer, Nigel Cooper, George Howe, Stuart Reid and Rachel Seymour. Together they bring a diverse mix of professional skills and experience from across the gig rowing community.
The AGM also confirmed the acceptance of new member clubs. Avon Corinthians, Coxside, Harbour Rowing Club and Penzance & Newlyn were welcomed as full member clubs, with Midland Cornish accepted as an affiliate member. UCSC Brightlingsea was ratified to full membership, while Combwich Boat Club resigned from the Association.
The meeting closed with confirmation that the next CPGA Annual General Meeting will take place on Sunday 17 January 2027.
The strong attendance, constructive engagement from clubs, and successful election of new trustees demonstrated the continued health, commitment, and momentum of the Cornish Pilot Gig Association as it looks ahead to another year of development for the sport.