THE Praa Sands pirate raft race returned on Sunday, September 8, writes Tom Harper.

Following the success of last year after nearly 10 years off, this year’s community charity fundraising event was promised to be bigger and more piraty than ever, and it didn’t disappoint. The pirate party took place at The Welloe beach restaurant the night before the race.

When Sunday loomed, Praa Sands started filling up with anticipation, as the 15 homemade vessels moved into position for the midday start.

As the horn sounded the numerous pirates and other fancy dressers, frantically took to the water in a competitive frenzy. Some moved unexpectedly quickly, while other pirates dug their ores deep, to no avail, floundering in the shallows.

With the race in full swing, the whole scene encapsulated the spirit and quirkiness of the Cornish community. The crowd was strong, cheering and hooting as this armada made their way around a buoy hundreds of yards out to sea.

Many defied the laws of physics, as they ploughed their way around in an un-hydrodynamical way, others surrendering to the process. Others were there to just have a bit of fun. 

After a well fought battle, the leading sea warriors made it to land, smoking their opponents. One by one rafts with weary passengers made it to shore apart from one.

Possibly the most unusual of the bunch, a large 10x10 ft giant tube like structure was incredibly futuristic, with humans running inside the tunnel structure to gain traction across the water. However in reality, it was back to the drawing board as they were rescued part way with a dinghy. 

With the spectators that lined the shore well and truly entertained, the whole event was a massive success thanks to organisers Shane, Carol and co, who also helped create possibly the most spectacular of rafts consisting of a giant skeleton.