On a rainy but warm Saturday on the 19th of August were held the 56th Coracle races at Cilgerran on the River Teifi in South Wales. Originally the races were for the coracle fishermen from the village and others from the River Tywi at Carmarthen.

This year no River Tywi coracles attended but there but two 'other' coracles with members from the coracle society. Racing commenced at 2.00 pm with the 60 yard coracle race for the Glyn Mathias memorial cup for a first prize of £10, second £5 and third £3. This was followed by the ladies race over the same 'distance and duplicate prizes. Other races were for the 18 years and under, also a 120 yard dash, the Teifi fishermen only race, a water polo match and a complete novice fun race. Cash prizes were awarded to all winners and 2nd and 3rd places. Other races later in the afternoon were for one handed paddling and also a non winner's race. Halfway thrcugh the afternoon was a display of net fishing that produced a salmon of about 151b.

The coracles from other rivers were a Shrewsbury from the River Severn and a traditional River Taf type. This example was the first one built to a design not used for many decades and last built 70 years ago also the first time on any river. The rain did little to stop the enjoyment for competitor and visitor alike especially for those travelling to the event who experienced an enjoyable afternoon.