2010 International Contest of Seamanship Tremendous Success

by Scott Wagg on 12 Aug 2010 It was fitting that thirteen international crews participated in the thirteenth edition of the Atlantic Challenge International Contest of Seamanship during the last week of July in Midland, ON. Sixteen years ago, eight crews participated in the event held last in the area in Penetanguishene and the growth is a testament to the aims and values of Atlantic Challenge throughout the world. The aim of the contest is to bring youth from throughout the world together for a friendly contest involving sailing, rowing and seamanship events in replica 18th century 38' longboats. A magnificent sight was witnessed with the largest full fleet starts in the contest history with thirteen boats sailing around the course at the same time for several of the events during the week.

The evenings were filled with live music, dancing and the popular crew entertainment evening when each participating team provides a short show for everyone. The comradely was seen on the water as well with the L'esprit event mixing crew from each boat, the loaning of longboats to Denmark whose gig was late and crew members from throughout the world supplementing the Italian crew.

The final evening found new friends together for a closing banquet and awards ceremony. The event saw eight days filled with fourteen events and crew members from sixteen countries participating. The Lance Lee Trophy was presented to Harmonie from Northern Ireland for the best performing gig in the L'Esprit and Captain's Gig events. The Spirit of Atlantic Challenge was awarded to Denmark for the second time in a row with this award being chosen by participating crews and recognizing the crew that most embodies the spirit of Atlantic Challenge. Finland took home the John Kerr Award for Seamanship which was awarded by the Events Committee recognizing the highest seamanship standards through the event on and off the water. The Jakobstad Fair Play Award was given to France for showing outstanding sportsmanship throughout the contest. The final trophy to be award was the overall Atlantic Challenge Trophy presented to Great Britain who ended up with the lowest cumulative score over the week.

Results and more pictures can be found at www.midland2010.atlanticchallenge.ca and the next event will be in Bantry Bay, Ireland in 2012. More information can be found about continuing programs in Canada at www.atlanticcchallenge.ca.