Pilot Race Information 2026

Saturday 15 August 2026

Background Information

As some of you may be aware, our Celtics are based on pilot gigs where a Pilot was rowed
out to an incoming vessel. Pilots would compete with each other for the work, with the
fastest gig crew getting their pilot onboard first and securing the job.

Our annual Fun Race is based on this tradition. Crews row along a designated
course with a passenger (the Pilot), collect treasure, and return to shore.
The race starts and finishes at Borth y Gest.

Weather permitting, water pistols make an appearance to drench the Pilots on the beaches!
Afterwards, crews parade back down the trots, put boats away, enjoy food and refreshments,
and attend the prize giving.

Event Details

Date	Saturday, 15 August 2026
High Tide	Porthmadog – 11:00am at 5.18m
Location	Madoc Yacht Club & Harbour, Porthmadog Race Start: Buoy 15, Borth y Gest

Schedule

Registration closes: 9:30am prompt
Email Registration:
rowrotaman@gmail.com
(must be received by Thursday 13 August 2026)
Coxes Briefing: 9:45am (Coxes Only)
From Porthmadog to Buoy 15 at Borth y Gest: 10:00am
Race Start: 10:30am

Payment

Payment in advance is preferred.

Account Name	Madoc Yacht Club Ltd
Sort Code / Account	403730 / 21485563

Cash and card payments will also be accepted on the day.

Venue Information

Madoc Yacht Club
Pencei
Porthmadog
Gwynedd
LL49 9AT

Launch boats from the slipway in Porthmadog Harbour.
Proceed to Buoy 15, Borth y Gest for the start.
After the race, return to the Harbour.
Food, drinks and presentation back at Madoc Yacht Club.

Special Notes

25th Anniversary Celebration

MYC Rowing, Porthmadog are celebrating their 25th Anniversary.
The course has been extended this year and will head towards Portmeirion.

Entry Cost

£10 per person (including Cox and Pilot)
£60 per boat

Any profits from the day will be donated to Criccieth RNLI.

Fancy Dress

Crews and boats are encouraged to take part in the spirit of the event
by dressing in pilot and/or pirate attire.

Food & Refreshments

Tea, coffee and bacon baps available before the race.
Food provided after the race (included in the entry fee).
Please advise of any dietary requirements.

Parking

Limited parking available at the Yacht Club.
Additional council parking facilities nearby.
Important: A camera monitoring system is in place.
Late registrations may result in parking fines issued by the operating company.
Celtics and trailers may be kept on the green beside the slipway.

Facilities

Showers available.
Changing facilities available.

Race Viewing Points

Borth y Gest Beach
Coastal Path
Pill Box area

Stay Afterwards!
The Yacht Club will remain open throughout the day and everyone is welcome
to stay for food, drinks and celebrations after the race.

If you require camping or B&B recommendations, please let us know when confirming attendance.

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