Hunkin Regatta – Fowey 2026

The Hunkin Regatta proved to be a competitive yet friendly event, made all the more memorable by some truly challenging conditions. Following heavy rainfall in the days leading up to the regatta — and despite a hopeful promise of blue skies — the rain made a determined appearance throughout the day!

A late illness meant our planned cox was unable to attend, so huge thanks go to Abbie, who jumped back into the cox’s seat with less than 24 hours’ notice. With baby Ella watching safely from the dry comfort of her waterproof buggy, Abbie did a brilliant job and saved the day.

A shortage of race coxes across the event also meant Simon and Tony spent much of the day on the water. If they weren’t racing, they were coxing — and getting thoroughly soaked in the process. As Simon commented, “You can only get wet once”… though for him that happened within the first five minutes! Hayden also stepped up to race cox for the first time, another great milestone.

There were several other firsts too, with Shelly and Keith competing in their first regatta — and certainly one they won’t forget in a hurry!

Performances across the crews were strong, with some excellent racing against quality opposition. The day provided valuable practice for emerging summer crews and gave both captains plenty of insight into areas to build on in the months ahead.

The spirit and unity of the club shone through: a small but determined (and very wet!) group supporting each other throughout the day.

Thank you to Barry, Shelly’s proud partner, for towing the trailer, and to Fowey for hosting a great regatta. Special thanks also to non-rowing members Karen Rees and Heather Harris, who surprised us with their attendance and much-appreciated support as well as Julie , Rick and Shirley who proved themselves to be the rocks behind the rowers and also got as wet.