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From left to right: Willum Tulloch, Jamie Petrie, Jess Fraser, Ronan Laurenson, Jaime Boyle, Sonia Poniecka, Jess Wadley, Logan Paton, Beren Serginson. Photo: Shetland sailing training
More than two dozen young sailing trainees completed the first six days of the Sailing Initiation Days aboard the tall ship Swan.
Organized by Sail Training Shetland and The Swan Trust, 30 13-23 year olds participated in the training days held between July 28 and August 2, allowing them to gain experience and learn more about future trips with Sail Training Shetland, in particular by taking part in the races of the tall ships.
Tasting days were a new offering from sailing training organizations due to Covid-19 and proved to be very popular with 57 applications received in total, which led to the addition of three additional tasting days.
Peter Campbell, President of Sail Training Shetland, said: “We are delighted with the interest, which bodes well for the Shetlands as they host the Tall Ships Races again in 2023.
“Sailing training is a unique experience that builds confidence, skills and friendships and we hope these days inspire those on board to take a longer trip when possible.
“We are very grateful to our sponsors for allowing us to offer the tasting days free of charge, as well as funding for the Scottish Government’s summer activities for children and young people.
“This meant that we could provide all applicants with a sailing experience, which is particularly important as we come out of the pandemic, which we know has been particularly difficult for young people. “
In addition to sailing training, the course helps young people get to know each other and discover hidden strengths and talents. It also builds self-confidence, independence, teamwork, communication skills, and friendships.
Rachel Dorrat, a former sailing intern who helped with the trips, said: “I had a fantastic day aboard Swan. There haven’t been a lot of events in the past year for our age group to get excited about so it’s great to have the chance to go sailing.
She added: “I look forward to the opportunity to sail further as well, and when the Tall Ships arrive in 2023 at Lerwick.
“I look forward to the atmosphere, the events and maybe, if I’m lucky, the chance to sail a bigger sailboat and experience a longer voyage with Sail Training Shetland – there is a lot to wait.”
A full report will appear in the Time of the Shetland Islands.
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