Midland Cornish rowing club competes in world championships

Landlocked rowers are set to make waves at sea when they compete in the world championships for Cornish pilot gig boats. Midland Cornish rowing club, based in Derbyshire, is no stranger to competition, but its crews face a unique challenge - being from an inland region with little experience of coastal rowing.

The club's teams have been surprising their opponents at local events, including the Gig Racing County Championships in Plymouth, where they represented Derbyshire. Their presence often catches people off guard, with some opponents taken aback by the sight of landlocked rowers competing against them.

As one of the team members, Katie Baines, noted: "They're always quite shocked." The Midland Cornish crew is gearing up for the world championships in the Isles of Scilly from April 30 to May 2, an event that draws around 2,000 rowers.

The Midland Cornish crew is a rare breed in the world of traditional rowing. While over 90 clubs and more than 8,000 active gig rowers call the South West of England home, this team trains on a reservoir far from the nearest stretch of open sea.

Located more than 60 miles inland, their unique situation allows them to stand out among their peers. Founded by Chris Baker, who moved from Cornwall to Derbyshire 35 years ago but only got back into rowing in the past decade, Midland Cornish has around 30 regulars on its team.

Despite being a long way from the sea, the crew's performance is not lacking in spirit or competitiveness. According to Baker, his rowers are well aware of their challenge and do not take it lightly, as evidenced by their determined approach to training.

"I don't think we embarrass ourselves when we turn up," Baker said confidently.

The Derbyshire team's coach has a unique advantage in his experience and expertise. Martin Pezzack, a former multiple world champion from Cornwall, brings a wealth of knowledge to the table.

Coaching teams that rarely get to experience the sea is particularly rewarding for him. This adds an extra layer of satisfaction to their accomplishments.