The History of the Gig

Dating from the late 18th Century, Pilot Gigs were used  to ferry 'pilots' to ships waiting to be guided into the various harbours through the treacherous Cornish coastal waters.  The first 'pilot' to arrive at a waiting ship would be awarded the 'pilot's fee' and so Gigs were always in competition with each other to be the first to get their 'pilot' to a potential job.  Thus it is not surprising that racing Gigs for sport and pleasure soon became a popular pastime. 

Pilot Gig History at the Cornish Pilot Gig website

Gigs being prepared on the shoreline.

St Elvan racing at the Scilly Isles.

"Victory awaits those who have everything in order?
People call that luck!

Defeat is certain for those who have forgotten to take the necessary precautions in time?
That is called bad luck!"

Ronald Amundson  14 December 1911