gig racing

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.

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