Maryport Trawler Race 2013

Once again, thanks to the organisers, I was invited to photograph the annual 2013 Maryport Trawler Race on Saturday 25th May. After the appalling conditions at last year’s race I went prepared for bad weather but this year it was a glorious summer’s day with clear skies and calm seas. There were more boats than ever leading to some close racing and some good photos.

Heading towards the finish line

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.