The Cornish Pilot Gig Association is proud to announce the return of the Junior International Championships, taking place on Sunday 11 October 2026 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.
This event will be hosted by Coxside Gig Club, one of the CPGA’s newest full member clubs, having been welcomed into full membership at the Association’s Annual General Meeting in January 2026.
“We are absolutely delighted to welcome the Junior International Championships to Queen Anne’s Battery,” said Alex Warner, Club Manager at Coxside Gig Club. “As a new club, we are proud to be hosting these championship events. We look forward to welcoming everyone to Plymouth and promise to build on the success of previous offerings. Along with up-close action on the water, our planned shoreside support, exhibitors and activities should help entertain the whole family throughout the day at Queen Anne’s Battery – our world-class amphitheatre to Plymouth Sound.”
The Junior International Championships provides a high-profile platform for junior gig rowers from across the UK and beyond to compete, develop and connect within the sport. Racing will take place in the Cattewater, offering an excellent backdrop for a full day of competitive rowing.
Young athletes will compete in a seeding round followed by 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 entering jointly.
“The Cattewater is the perfect racing venue for this event,” said Phoebe Millar, Chair of the Cornish Pilot Gig Association. “We look forward to welcoming young athletes, supporters and clubs for what promises to be a fantastic day of racing and camaraderie on the water.”
The Junior International Championships aims to broaden participation and give young people a platform for competition and opportunity for camaraderie. Following consultation across the gig rowing community, the CPGA remains committed to supporting dedicated junior racing opportunities and strengthening long-term engagement in the sport.
The JIC is preceded on Saturday 10th October by the National County Championships which also features U14 and U16 competitors, as selected competitors represent their County sides.
Further information, including race itineraries and registration details, will be available via the Events Directory on the CPGA website.