In the rowing world, gig racing is considered to be the ultimate test in fixed-seat rowing. For devotees, it represents far more than simply 'messing about on the river' writes Sarah Tempest.

Gig regattas are tough but friendly competitions that attract many clubs and spectators – the sport is said to be the fastest-growing rowing activity in the South West.

Our own gig regatta, here on the Dart, is one of the first of the season and this year's event took place on Saturday, 29 March. The narrow river limits the number of gigs that can take part: 10 clubs competed this year over a 3,000-metre course from the Higher Ferry, out towards the castles and back to the finish line opposite Dartmouth Yacht Club.

Under a slate-grey sky with occasional sunshine and a bracing breeze, Dart Gig Club enjoyed a great day's racing in Smudger – the newest addition to the fleet.

The ladies' B crew, under coxswain Paul Kunert, was top of the racing programme and put in a strong performance with crew member Emily Mant competing in her first-ever race.

Dart crossed the line in third place before Caradon (in a gig named Ann Glanville) declared that four 'A' rowers had been included in its crew, elevating Cattewater (in Drake) and Dart to first and second place respectively.

Taking the coxswain's seat, Colin Brown then led the ladies' A crew – one of several Dart teams racing together for the first time. The crew set a good pace all the way around the course to finish in a satisfactory fourth place.

Next, with Clare Thorp as cox, the men's B crew had a good start, although Cattewater, Ilfracombe (Rapparee) and Brixham (Henry Smardon) soon pulled ahead, leaving Dart in fourth place.

Ahead of Smudger, Brixham took a wide turn around the first buoy, which allowed Dart to sneak inside to take third place, which our crew maintained to the finish line.

Under Colin Brown's second outing as cox, the ladies' vets had an excellent row – another of Dart's teams racing together for the first time.

At the second buoy they edged ahead of nearest rivals Caradon and Ilfracombe, and by the third mark had a two-length lead, racing home in first place.

Clare Thorp also coxed the men's vets crew that was essentially most of the men's B crew plus Rupert Kempley – a novice rower and also the youngest in the boat.

Again, one of the gigs – Teign this time (in Morgan) – tried to take the inside line. However, Dart pushed hard and left Teign behind before the first mark, retaining fourth place until the end.

Novice rower Katie Woodford and ex-Caradon crew member Milly Notley joined the ladies' C crew for their first race representing the club, in which Dart set off well in a fleet of seven. On the way out to the castle, with Paul Kunert as cox, it became evident there were some very strong crews and Smudger came home in sixth place.

First-time racer Rupert Kempley took to the river again in the men's C crew and was joined by fellow novice Will Atkins. Overall, Dart came home fifth out of a fleet of seven.

In the final race – the mixed crew – four ladies and two men took to the river in Smudger, coxed by Clare Thorp. Bonnie Chivers deserves a special mention for ably substituting one of the men at short notice; as does Michael Bryant-Mole for competing in four races.

Although our gig regatta is all about the races, it wouldn't be possible without the help of a multitude of people behind the scenes. Dart Gig Club wishes to thank Harbourmaster Rob Giles and his staff for allowing the event to take place; providing the pontoon; and supplying us with an entries and results tent at very short notice.

We'd also like to extend our gratitude to Gail Woodgate and Angie Raeburn for organising the entries and results; the Royal Dart Yacht Club for providing the race marks; chair of Salcombe Estuary Rowing Club Justin Harmer for starting the races; and Hillary Bastone for his race commentary.  

We also wish to acknowledge Tony Hoyle and Tony Hodge for providing rescue cover and umpire boats; Noss Marina and Ribeye for supplying following boats; and Dartmouth Amateur Rowing Club for offering additional rescue support.  

Our special thanks go to Dartmouth Yacht Club who allowed the racing crews to use its facilities; the Sloping Deck for its donation of warm, homemade pasties; the Dartmouth Arms which supplied pizzas; and, last but by no means least, Dart Gig Club members who set up the refreshments stand, donated cakes, sandwiches and raffle items and provided cover – all of which was coordinated by Hilary Bussell.

We have members of all ages and are always happy to talk to people who would like to join our club or maybe want to try a row or two before committing to anything more. If you fancy joining us, please call chairman Clare Thorp on 01803 832123 – she'd be delighted to hear from you.