Record number of gigs expected for Championships
A record 158 gigs are expected to take part in the 29th World Pilot Gig Championships next weekend.
Photo by SCY TV
WPGC committee vice-chair Kevin Sherris told This is Scilly that 154 men's crews and 150 ladies' crews have registered for the event, with 52 men's vets, 52 ladies' vets, 37 men's supervets and 39 ladies' supervets.
The crews include one from the US and four from the Netherlands.
Kevin, who is overseeing the Championships for the second year following the departure of former committee chairman Rick Persich, said that preparations for Gig Weekend are going well, although there have been "some niggly little things not happening that should be".
He added: "I do enjoy it in a sadistic way. It's hard work and stressful, but I like seeing all the crews enjoying themselves and it's great watching the racing. The long range weather forecast for this year is looking pretty good at the moment, so I hope it stays that way."
Kevin previously served as WPGC committee chairman for eight years and is hoping that a younger person will come forward to take on the role.
It was recently revealed that St Austell Brewery has signed on as a key sponsor for this year's event.
Volunteers are still needed for the Tunnel - either to help set it up over the next few days or to work during the Championships.