Recruitment drive to keep a coastal sport afloat
A recruitment push is under way in Perranporth to bolster surfboat rowing, amid warnings that the sport could fade in Cornwall without an influx of new participants. The discipline, rooted in surf lifesaving, sees crews row through surf before attempting to catch a wave back to shore, combining strength, timing and teamwork.
While surfboat racing remains prominent in Australia, organisers here say local participation has dwindled. The UK Surf Rowers League (UKSRL) described the situation as critical for Cornwall if numbers do not pick up. Taster sessions are being offered via Perranporth Surf Lifesaving Club to encourage first-timers.
“It's kind of got to a critical point where if we don't build the numbers now and recruit more people it's going to die as a sport. That would be an awful shame because it's the most exciting adrenaline sport ever.” — Kim Marie Jackson, UK Surf Rowers League
From rescue roots to racing waves
Surfboat rowing developed alongside surf lifesaving as a method of sea rescue before the widespread use of jet skis and RIBs. Crews of four row beyond the break, then work with the helm to turn and ride a wave to the beach. The craft, teamwork and conditions demand precision as well as fitness, but newcomers are being reassured that coaching and structured introductions are available locally.
New rower Sian Kirby, who joined the Perranporth team this year, said the thrills outweigh the effort:
“This is my first season in the waves but I've already managed to compete in my first competition. I've still got a long way to go. I am still learning. But everybody's been so welcoming. When you're catching a wave back in all the hard work to get out there is worth it.”
Participation concerns and a call to try
UKSRL chair Kim Marie Jackson said that when she began in 2006 there were multiple men’s and women’s crews competing, but those numbers have since fallen. Organisers are now focused on rebuilding club squads in Cornwall to secure the sport’s future.
| Year | Reported participation |
|---|---|
| 2006 | About 15 men's crews and 12 women's crews (UKSRL) |
National league lead Ken Croft urged people to give it a go, pointing to Cornwall’s extensive coastline and surf locations as ideal training grounds:
“In Cornwall we are so gifted with the beaches we have got and the accessibility that we've got and the surf locations that we've got. This sport is underused. We can get so many more people and clubs out enjoying it. It doesn't have to be big surf every time.”
What joining involves
Club volunteers say prospective rowers do not need prior surfboat experience to attend tasters. Sessions typically introduce basic stroke technique, crew roles and boat handling through the break, with a strong emphasis on safety and listening to the sweep (the helm). From there, new recruits can progress into regular training and local events.
- Register interest for taster sessions via Perranporth Surf Lifesaving Club.
- Expect coaching on rowing technique, sea conditions and teamwork.
- Progress at a steady pace; it doesn't have to be big surf to start.
Why it matters for Cornwall
Surfboat rowing connects directly with Cornwall’s lifesaving heritage and beach communities. Maintaining active crews supports club life on the north coast and keeps a pathway open for younger athletes who might later volunteer in lifesaving or compete. Organisers argue that without fresh rowers, a distinctive strand of coastal sport and know-how could be lost locally.
Taster sessions in Perranporth are designed to lower barriers to entry. Those interested are being encouraged to approach the club, meet the crew and see the boats up close before committing. With committed coaching and favourable conditions on Cornwall’s beaches, leaders hope the sport can rebuild its base and return to fuller race fields in the coming seasons.
