Around 30 Cornish Pilot Gigs from all over Cornwall and beyond were raced at Gyllyngvase on Saturday for the first in a series of fiercely competitive races in the St Austell Brewery Tribute Challenge.

The event was the first of the three main rowing events - referred to as Star Events - that take place over the summer and will now make up the Tribute Challenge series.

It was also the first major gig racing event since St Austell Brewery announced it had signed a major sponsorship deal with the Cornish Pilot Gig Association.

The event got off to a flying start with the current men's world champions, Caradon A crew, being pushed hard by Fowey but pulling away from them at the finish to secure first place.

In the Men's B event, Caradon established a good lead over the course, chased by Falmouth and Cadgwith for second and third place.

The Under 16 race followed with a good race between the three lead boats, finally won by Par Bay with Falmouth and Cadgwith again taking first and second.

If Caradon dominated the men's racing, then Falmouth set the pace for the ladies racing. Championship holders Falmouth Ladies A put in a powerful performance, covering the course in just 12.19 mins, a faster time than most of the male crews. In the B crew race it was left to Caradon to chase a superior Falmouth crew which left the rest of the competition far behind.

Full report in this week's issue.