This is an old revision of this page, as edited by Stuff ign (talk | contribs) at 15:58, 24 December 2004 (Proof-read, as requested by previous editor. Slight grammar change, and a few links added. Article is now fixed.). The present address (URL) is a permanent link to this revision, which may differ significantly from the current revision.
Revision as of 15:58, 24 December 2004 by Stuff ign (talk | contribs) (Proof-read, as requested by previous editor. Slight grammar change, and a few links added. Article is now fixed.)(diff) ← Previous revision | Latest revision (diff) | Newer revision → (diff)Gig racing is a lively tradition in the isolated archipelago of the Isles of Scilly, 40 km north of Land's End, England. Gigs are slender, narrow, 30-foot-long boats which were traditionally powered by a rowing crew of 6-12 islanders. Pilot duties and salvage from shipwrecks were important sources of income in the 19th century. By maritime custom, the first pilot to reach a ship was hired, and the first crew to reach a wreck could claim it and all salvageable valuables as their own. The income of a gig crew depended therefore critically on their ability to outspeed competitors and to navigate the treacherous waters of the archipelago in any weather.
Nowadays, engine-powered gigs remain in use for transportation between the islands and tours for visitors, while gig racing is practised as a sport. Crews of 6 or 7 represent their island or town and a victory is a matter of pride for the winners' whole community.