Features and Reviews

Brixham's Trawler Race 2011

Heavy showers ceased, just in time for the start of the 49th Brixham Trawler Race on Saturday June 18th, with many local fishermen and a few from beyond, taking part in the race around Tor Bay.

The main start at 11am was followed by a staggered start for individual boats, based on a handicapped system, with the course following a different route around the Bay this year and in spite of the sometimes inclement weather, all boats got safely back to the harbour.

Superintendent of the Brixham Fishermen's Mission, John W. Anderson said about the event that,' Brixham has a long maritime history and a proud reputation for being at the forefront of the fishing industry in innovation and dedication within the industry. We wish to celebrate all that's Brixham and we hope you will enjoy the day, helping raise funds for small local charities we endeavour to help.'

After last year's event over £11,500 was donated to local groups and charities including: Friends of Laywell House, Brixham Fisherman's Mission, Brixham Does Care, Brixham Battery Group, Brixham Blind Club, Linx Christian Youth Trust, Brixham Amateur Swimming Club, Leonard Cheshire Disability, Pride in Brixham, F.I.S.H (towards the Storm Sculpture) and Shoalstone Pool.

Fortunately the showers were short and did not distract the visitors during the afternoon as they congregated for the winners' prize giving.

This year's overall race winner, receiving the Maaskant Bell (donated by the Maaskant Shipyard in Holland) and cup for 1st place Beamer, was the Kerrie Marie. In second place in the Beamer's Class was the Lloyd Tyler, followed in 3rd place by the Christina.

In the Scalloper's Class Lady Lou came 1st ,with Emilia Jane 2nd and Van Dijcik 3rd , whilst in the Day Boats saw Eloise 1st , Virgo 2nd , and Katie C 3rd . For the Crabbers Trerose took 1st place followed by Zordik, which also took the prize for the ‘Smartest Start'.

This year the Lady Lou was chosen as the ‘Best Dressed Boat', whilst the Highest Value catch for 2010 was achieved by the Lady Marie. The Oldest Working Fisherman also received an award, Ken Kibble and a special Dutch Memorial Cup was presented to the Dutch visiting trawler, to honour Adan't Manajee.

Presenting the prizes was Simon Williams, Commodore of the Naval College at Dartmouth. The Commodore said,”Brixham is going from strength to strength, landing more and more catches. We in the Royal Navy have great respect for the fishermen being fellow seafarers.”