There’s something very warming about our annual freezing Frostbite Regatta.
It could be a combination of energy efficiency factors like the hot soup, stovies and chilli; the brilliant bakes; the warm camaraderie and optimistic spirit of rowers embracing a new rowing year; or the heat and energy radiating from the boats across the water as rowers catch and drive towards the finish line. Whatever it is, Frostbite at Kinghorn Loch is a special wee regatta with a big friendly heart and a wonderful face – to face the frequently cauld blast of North East February climate.
This year was no exception and after an initial hiccup due to weather conditions – Fife rowing clubs met, mingled and matched with each other on loch and land last Sunday March 2nd.
Often Frostbite provides the perfect opportunity and venue for new rowers to get their first stab at competing, and this year we welcomed Burntisland’s Black Rocks Club with their newly made St Ayles Skiff Irene. And what an inspiration it was to see how well this new club took to the water especially in the Sprints! No denying a Goodnight Irene there then. We also welcomed rookie rower Michael Thomson, whose head got watered in this year’s Frostbite regatta.
With the wind picking up throughout the day, we were glad of our overcoats and hot snacks, and Frostbite 2025 got off to a swift start. With the wind behind us on the outer leg but against us on the first and last, there was a lot of hard driving to be done. But done it was – in some instances very beautifully. It was our friends from Wormit that won the day, coming in first or second place across the board and displaying some rather splendid racing skills and spirit. Well done Wormit!
So as we move into March and the weather warms up, hot on the footrests of Frostbite, KCRC is finding a new training groove over and above our popular social rows. With Skiffie Worlds in sight, training has started for our world championship crews, and if you’re passing the loch on a Saturday afternoon or early Sunday morning stroll – then look out for us and give us a wave and a cheer!
We welcome new rowers at any time of year. We are open to all of any age or ability (big enough to manage an oar). Look out for our come and try sessions or contact us at kinghorncoastalrowingclub@gmail.com