FOGO ISLAND/CHANGE ISLANDS – The world's only seagoing rowing race, The Great Fogo Island Punt Race To There And Back, kicked off on Aug. 2 from the canal in Fogo on Fogo Island with 17 teams taking part.
The annual punt race covers over 10 miles of open sea in tribute to the maritime history and traditions of the fishing communities on Fogo Island and Change Islands.
This is the fourth year the race honoured ingenuity of the boat builders on Fogo Island and Change Islands. It also showcases the determination of local rowers.
Last years race also added a women's division and the teams have received great support and expressed an even bigger interest in their own event again this year, with seven teams taking to the Atlantic.
This year’s winning teams included return champs Aiden Adams and Keith Emberley of the men's/mixed division and Kim Sullivan and Diane Budden of the women's division.
Committee chair Colleen Higgins said the event was another success for the organizers and the residents of both islands.
“The Punt Race Steering Committee have worked tirelessly to prepare for this race and are so very pleased with the results,” she said. “There are many aspects with a race of this magnitude, in particular the on water safety aspect. We have always put first and foremost the safety of our rowers.”
Safety was the main reason the event had a six-day delay this year.
“The race was set back by six days from July 27 to Aug. 2 due to weather and sea conditions,” said Ms. Higgins. “It took many hours and volunteers to organize the safety on the water alone. I have to acknowledge our committee, made up of volunteers, and everyone who helped in anyway to make this year’s race one to remember.”
The race not only gives the rowers and builders a chance to show off their skills, but it also celebrates a boat that was once more important to islanders then automobiles. The punts were used to travel, fish and earn a modest living on the islands.
“The Shorefast Foundation, Zita and Tony Cobb; only for their passion and love of these punts we would not be where we are today - celebrating over 300 years of wooden boat building,” said Ms. Higgins. “Just four years ago there was only a few traditional wooden punts left, today we have the largest fleet of over 40.
“With this being the only open ocean race of its kind in North America in traditional wooden punts, I think it peeks the interest and pride in our little punts drawing crowds every year with interest from all over the world.
Ms. Higgins said she also admires the physical strength and determination of the many rowers who take part in the race each year.
“It is truly amazing to see these brave souls take to the ocean, two rowers to a punt, and take on 10 miles in total of open ocean to Change Islands and back to Fogo” she said. “This is a grueling and demanding test of your physical ability and endurance. I am still blown away by all rowers who take on this challenge. I commend every rower who has ever taken part. I love those little punts, but I will stick to a leisurely row around the harbour any day.”
Plans underway for 2011
The Great Fogo Island Punt Race – To There And Back takes place every year on the last Tuesday of July (weather permitting).
The 2011 race is scheduled for July 26 and Ms. Higgins said she is anxious to begin planning.
“Next year I anticipate more teams and even more interest in the punt race,” she said. “This has been the most rewarding and challenging job I have ever taken on, and I can’t wait for next year.”
For more information on The Great Fogo Island Punt Race visit www.tothereandback.com.
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