GALLERY: The 50 year 'RowUnion'

Tuesday 20 June 2023

There was "perfect boating weather" for the Guernsey Rowing Club's 50th anniversary 'RowUnion' event.

Held on Saturday, there was a race around Jethou with spectators given a chance to watch the action from the Trident which was hired by sponsor The Fort Group - which is also celebrating its 50th anniversary this month.

The club said the "stand out rower of the day" was Marc Isabelle who had the fastest time in the men's singles in 1:09:37. It was his first time rowing in the singles.

Pictured: The results will be shared in full HERE.

"Well done to all the crews who took part in the race and a special thanks to the guard boats & time keepers," said a spokesperson.

The club said "the sea was smooth and the sun was shining" for the race with puffins spotted at the back of Jethou and a pod of dolphins that followed the Trident as the rowers made their way back to St Peter Port.

The celebrations then continued in the Guernsey Yacht Club with more than 200 attendees at the RowUnion event.

Among the special guests in attendance were founder member of the Guernsey Rowing Club Brian Staples and founder member of the Jersey Rowing Club Barry Lelai.

Pictured (l-r): Paul Montague, Brian Staples and Barry Lelai.

"Current and past Guernsey Rowing Club members gathered to share their rowing stories," said the club spokesperson.

"A gallery of old rowing photos, videos and memorabilia was on display. There were drinks and light refreshments served with speeches made by Ben Vaudin, the 15th and current Captain, and founding member Brian Staples. This was followed by the highly anticipated raffle, with prizes generously donated from local businesses across the island, many of whom are also celebrating 50 years this year.

"A big thank you to all of our sponsors with a special mention to title sponsors The Fort Group, who covered the cost of the Travel Trident and welcome drinks and Butterfield, who donated £500 worth of prizes for the raffle.

"A special thank you to Ben Vaudin, Paul Montague, Beverley Mella, Brian Staples, Dave Perrio, Pete Dorey, Karl Guille and others for organising the event. It was a fantastic afternoon and evening enjoyed by all!"

Pictured above and top: All images with thanks to Mark Windor.

GALLERY: A selection of photos provided by Mark Windsor on behalf of the Guernsey Rowing Club are below.