Maryport Trawler Race 2010

On Saturday 13th August, I was again invited to join the Maryport Trawler Race as photographer for the event. This year I was fortunate to join the Isle of Man Fisheries Protection Vessel (FPV) Barrule, an impressive boat and astonishingly quick. The speed enable me to get ahead of the boats and wait for them to come in close, before speeding off again to get in front again. Many thanks to the skipper and crew of the Barrule for allowing me on board.

The weather was perfect for the race but with choppy seas that created some impressive bow waves and sea spray, giving a sense of the speed of the boats.

Isle of Man FPV Barrule, my home for the day

The Maryport Trawler Race is an annual charity event that brings trawlers from Cumbria and the Isle of Man to the Solway Firth coastal town of Maryport. The race begins in the Elizabeth Dock at Maryport with judging of the boats to determine the best dressed boat and best dressed crew followed by a blessing before the race begins.

As there are a wide variety of boats involved in the race they are each assigned an estimated time to complete a set course along the coast, with the winner being the boat to complete the course in the closest time to its estimated time. This ensures a fair race for all boats rather than just relying on top speed alone.

The race always attracts a large crowd and there are harbourside attractions and other events to keep the spectators occupied for the whole day.

Funds raised are split between Maryport Rescue independent inshore lifeboat station and other local charities.

I have collection of further images here.