Trawler racing, a source of energy

The La Concha Trawler Races have become one of the sporting highlights of the Basque Country. For more than 100 years, this event has steadily grown in popularity and nowadays, large crowds gather along the shore of the La Concha beach to urge on the rowers.

Eight trawlers meet in La Concha Bay at mid-day on the first two Sundays of September. Each crew is made up of thirteen rowers and a skipper that steers the trawler. The four boats with the best times qualify for the finals.

Life in our city has always been closely linked to the oceans. Since time immemorial, hundreds of fishermen have set out to fish the sea day after day. In the 19th century, the boats needed strong individuals who were able to row for hours to reach the fishing grounds. They also had to be very fast as they raced back with their catch to reach the port's fish auction room first. Engines gradually took over from the men and, although the races continued to be closely tied to the world of fishing, the event was transformed.

The first races in 1879 were part of the city's summer programme. Fishing trawlers took part that had previously competed drive by financial concerns and to show their superiority. The event was so popular with the spectators who watched the victory of the “Avante” on that Sunday in September that San Sebastian City Council then decided to hold the races every year.

The races are nowadays consider to be a dual between the inner strength of each rower and each trawler with the sea and its rivals.