SARK TO JERSEY row legend Brian Staples has bowed out in style. Saturday was the 40th time that the Channel Islands’ blue riband rowing event has taken place and the 62-year-old Guernseyman has competed in every single one since it started in 1967.

But THIS was his last-ever Sark to Jersey.

‘I felt as fresh as could be when I crossed the finishing line,’ he said.

‘I didn’t feel sad. It was on my mind that I wanted to finish the race in style.

‘I didn’t want to get cramps or fall out of the boat. I just wanted to get there and be able to say I’ve done 40 races.’

Staples’ Hash Anchors team completed the 14-mile course in 2hr 15min. 52sec.

That was the second-quickest time in which he had reached the finish at Bonne Nuit. It ensured that they beat fours-boat rivals Close Funds and The Partnership.

The race took place in heavy seas, but that suited Staples’ men.

‘I found they were good conditions for our Hash Anchors boat and for the crew,’ Staples said.

‘We love those conditions. Close Funds beat us in the Havelet Bay to Rocquaine by 10 minutes, so we thought they were going to beat us by 20 minutes and not the other way round.

‘We are more experienced in handling those sort of conditions than them.’

After the race, Staples was presented with the new merit award for his achievement, the Challenge Business Trophy donated by Sir Chay Blyth.

The Sarnian also received a bottle of vintage champagne in recognition of his role as Guernsey’s long-time liaison officer for the Jersey Rowing Club-organised race.

Staples is going to decide at the end of the season whether he is going to give up rowing competitively.

‘I would like to thank all the past and present rowers that have rowed this prestigious Sark to Jersey rowing race with me,’ he said.

‘Without them I may not have achieved competing in all 40 races and winning 28 of them. All thanks to the tow/guard boats who have got me, as well as my crews, to the start of all races and back to Guernsey.

‘And as for the final one: I have called it a good 40 races done and retired from this race. I wish all the new up-and-coming younger rowers the best of luck in all the many future races.

‘Long may it go on.’