Dell Quay Sailing Club's 100 year commemorative Rowing Regatta.

Published 13:17 on 5 Aug 2025

On Saturday 2nd August 2025 Dell Quay Sailing Club hosted a rowing regatta as part of a series of events which celebrate the 100th anniversary of the club.

86 rowers in 9 boats from some of our our neighbouring clubs joined us early in the day for a fun event which comprised beach games, picnic and social activities before taking to the water for an afternoon of good natured racing. We were also joined briefly by local 'rowing royalty' Mike Gilbert who has played a prominent role in establishing inter club rowing and competition within the 3 harbours of Chichester, Langstone and Portsmouth.

The crews consisted of men's, ladies and mixed ensembles and a sunny day with light winds and flat water contributed to perfect rowing conditions and a great atmosphere.

The course was over 2.2 kilometres, all within sight of the club and an enthusiastic crowd gathered at the quayside to support the rowers.

Congratulations go to the men's crew at Bosham who won the men's event, 2 seconds ahead of Dell Quay who have largely dominated the men's field of late. Bosham ladies also crossed the line some 19 seconds ahead of our ladies crew in a tightly fought contest. Success in both mixed crew races gave Bosham a "clean sweep" on the day and they were rewarded with a hatful of "drinks" tokens redeemable on the Dell Quay club premises.

Our galley staff reported an enthusiastic take up of tea and cake throughout the day as sustenance for the afternoon rowing activities. One of those partaking was Dell Quay club stalwart, John Wilburn, who then "guested" as a rower aboard 'Icanor' the Itchenor Sailing Club Celtic Longboat. Little did they know, John, was one of four rowers who completed the Trans - Atlantic Rowing Challenge in 2024/25. Dell Quay Sailing Club were delighted to invite John to unveil a commemorative Plaque at the evening prizegiving to recognise his great achievement alongside crewmates Steve Potter, Dan Dicker and Jason Howard aboard "Lessons from a boat".

Our organising committee wish to extend their gratitude to all those who helped to run the event on the day, in any capacity. We are also most grateful to all clubs who attended and supported the event. We very much hope the day was enjoyed by all!

The next competitive inter club event will be the Tudor Challenge on Saturday 9th August when crews will race over approximately 10 miles at Langstone Harbour.