MORE than 2,000 people gathered in Peel on Saturday to watch the annual World Championship Viking Longboats Races take place.
The sun shone as men and women battled on the waves to showcase their rowing skills.
A healthy entry of 70 teams took part in the event which helps bring the Viking heritage of Peel to life with bulky longboats being rowed as fast as their crews are able.
The 750 participants raced from the harbour mouth, around a buoy in the bay and back again.
Secretary of Peel Viking Longboats Jimmy Lee was delighted with how successful the day was. He said: ‘The day went very well with the sun shining in Peel, everybody seemed in good spirits.
‘I would like to thank everyone who helped out on the day, and all our sponsors – Royal London 360, Manx Radio, Heron and Brearley and Promenade T-shirts.
‘Without the help of everyone behind the scenes the day could not go ahead, including Peel police, Peel Commissioners and Peel harbour keepers and, of course, a big thank you to all those who competed in the races.’
RESULTS:
Mens 1, Farghers Lift Men (2 minutes 27.48 seconds); 2, Central Young Farmers (2:29.84); 3, Sheepskull Enduro Riders (2:30.36).
Women 1, Eastern Young Farmers (3:13.60); 2, Bettridge Motors (3:19.29); 3, Viqueen Vixens (3:28.80).
Mixed 1, Ravern Raiders (2:38.55); 2, Sheepskull Enduro Riders (2:40.99); 3, Anglo Manx (2:42.93).
The results mean Farghers Lift Men are world champions.
There were a number of other titles up for grabs on the day, including the slowest team on the day, which was picked up by Win Oar Lose – Rovers drink booze B, who received the wooden spoon for their efforts. It wasn’t all bad news for them, however, as they won the fancy dress competition.