Local NHS therapist rows her way to World Championship glory

Published: 15 October 2025

A Teignmouth-based NHS professional has proven that teamwork and determination can lead to triumph—both on the hospital ward and out on the open water.

Jane Avery, one of our Occupational Therapists, recently celebrated a remarkable victory with her rowing crew at the World Pilot Gig Championships held on the Isles of Scilly.

Jane, who has worked within our services for over 23 years, is a proud member of the River Teign Rowing Club, where she rows Cornish Pilot Gigs—a traditional six-oared boat with deep roots in West Country maritime heritage.

Their race boat, Teign Spirit, is more than just a vessel—it’s a symbol of the club’s ethos and the community’s resilience.

“The camaraderie in our crew is incredible,” Jane said. “We all work together toward a shared goal, just like I do every day in the NHS. That sense of unity is what drives me.”

Jane’s rowing journey is as impressive as her professional one. After qualifying as an Occupational Therapist in 2002, she began her career at Paignton Hospital, later moving into the Neuro/Stroke service where she spent over a decade on George Earle ward.

Her experience spans Newton Abbot Hospital, the Torquay Intermediate Care Team, McCallum Ward, and now the in-patient Acute rotation at Torbay Hospital.

Her rowing crew trained intensively for two years in preparation for the World Championships, including early morning strength and conditioning sessions throughout the winter. Despite initial nerves and adrenaline on race day, the team executed a precise race plan and surged ahead in the final minutes to claim victory.

“All six rowers and our cox burst into tears when we realised we’d won,” Jane recalled. “It was overwhelming. Every ounce of effort had been worth it.”

Jane has also represented Devon in her age category and is now focused on retaining the crew’s world title when they return to the Isles of Scilly next May.

Whether supporting patients or powering through the waves, Jane Avery exemplifies the spirit of dedication and teamwork that makes Torbay and South Devon proud.