Olympic fans from across the region will get the chance to see some gold medal winners next month when Great Britain’s  Olympic women’s rowing team visit St Mawes.

Fresh from beating the world’s elite at London 2012, Team GB’s Olympic heroines, including gold medal winners Helen Glover, Heather Stanning and Sophie Hosking, are revving up for yet another epic challenge after the South West army gig rowers challenged them to a race.

The rowing community divides into the precision matter of technique. The sliding seat world - which is what Team GB rowers use - and the brute strength and endurance of the fixed seat crews - which is what the traditional Cornish gig rowers compete in.

On September 12 these two disciplines will collide in a series of races, which will turn the calm waters off St Mawes into the ultimate battleground. The unique event has been organised by Cornish-born Olympic rower Annie Vernon, who competed in the women’s eight event at London 2012.

Speaking about the event, she said: “Now that the Olympics are over I’m really excited to bring some of the British Olympic rowers down to Cornwall to take on the county’s gig rowers. This is our chance to see which rowers can triumph, and also to show off what’s great about our county and one of our most popular sports. I hope as many people as possible can come down to watch the action and get involved."

The challenge will start at 5pm with a series of three races following at 6pm. The event, hosted by Roseland Gig Club, is free to watch. Spectators can then test themselves against the GB’s best on rowing machines. The event is supported by St Austell  Brewery, A&P Falmouth Ltd, Seasalt Cornwall and VisitCornwall.

Event organisers have teamed up with Helston-based charity ShelterBox, with a collection set to take place on the night. the Rising Sun at St Mawes will provide a hog roast and bar.

Organisers are seeking further supporters for the rowing challenge, designed to showcase both Cornwall and gig rowing.

For further information contact Annabel.vernon@gmail.com to benefit from this excellent opportunity for regional and local exposure and association with such a great Cornish sport.