2014 Lochbroom Skiff Regatta Photographs

Steven Gourlay is a most excellent Ullapool based photographer who has recently been wowing the locals by showing the village from a new perspective. His aerial shots of Lochbroom and Ullapool give a seagulls eye view of village activities and he was in action at this years Regatta. It is very well worth visiting his facebook page to see some stunning shots of the start line and race action from the air. He has also secured an excellent portfolio of shots from land and sea in not particularly good conditions (the quality of the light on Saturday was exceedingly harsh and difficult) also viewable on facebook. For those interested in the how a couple of shots of the aerial machine and operator.

Steve Gourlay’s Aerial Photographic Machine

Steve Gourlay virtual flying

Steve in more conventional action

The UCRC snaps, such as they are, are on Flickr – if fellow skiffies wish borrow and  post these elsewhere they are welcome to do so but it would be a friendly gesture to observe the normal courtesies.

and whilst we’re mentioning Gigs

The rather sad strips of camping roll that have served as seat cushions have now been replaced by some rather snazzy bespoke cushions from supplier to Cornish gigs, Gigass. The level of service provided has been superb, they took the trouble to research this website to add little touches like ‘Ulla’s’ name in the correct font and to make sure they were in the club colours. such has been the rowers delight in the new level of comfort achieved that a set will be ordered for Cul Mor.

Ready to leave Cornwall for Ullapool

Fitted and receiving hard use

Skiff & Gig World champions clash blades

In an unexpected treat for Ullapool Skiff Regatta goers Falmouth Pilot Gig Club, current World Champions (Mens & Womens), and Coigach Community Rowing Club, current Skiffie World Champions, were seen going head to head in the same race. ‘Energy’, the 1985 launched Pilot Gig enjoyed a leisurely row across Loch Broom steadily increasing her lead over ‘Coigach Lass’. Granted the Pilot Gig has an advantage in waterline length and 50% more oar power as well as quite a few more years in developing technique. A real pleasure seeing the two types of coastal rowing craft on the water together – our grateful thanks to Falmouth for traveling the length of the United Kingdom to give us this treat. (in fairness ‘Energy’ were not formally part of the race but luck of the Skiffies lane draw had resulted in Coigach Lass on the outside lane next to uncontested water where the Gig rowed)

Energy at rest on the beach in Sunny Ullapool

Energy moving out to the start line

The Start

a minute later – already a significant lead.

After the serious business of the day – racing on the Costa del Broom – the Gig club generously took (very) interested skiffies out for Gig rowing taster sessions.

Lochbroom Skiff Regatta Lane Draw

The lane draw took place this evening, we were extremely fortunate to have the services of completely unbiased Skiffies from the other side of the world to perform this essential service – our grateful thanks go to Lorrie & Warren Harrison of Women on Water – Tasmania – visiting Ullapool again who did an excellent job. The resultant table of clubs, races and lanes may be found on the Lane Draw page in the Regatta area.

The Women on the Water team at SkiffieWorlds last year