Applecross Rowing Club skiff enthusiasts on crest of a wave as season takes off and newcomers welcomed to come and try
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SKIFF enthusiasts have been getting back on the water in recent weeks in what is a welcome return for many to a pursuit which has taken off hugely right across Ross-shire.
Among the most beautiful backdrops is enjoyed by Applecross Rowing Club (ARC).
The club, which dates to 2017, is a wider community initiative to rekindle boat building, friendship and togetherness.
The skiff boat was hand-built by Gregor Watson, Sean Kilbride and George Graham and the wider group are now looking forward to regular outings on the crystal-clear waters of Applecross Bay.
Gregor Watson, who is on the steering group of the club said: “The skiff build started in 2017. It was Snoddy’s idea, a local who has sadly passed away. We spoke about a skiff boat years back. Myself and Jackie Liubia then spoke about it and ran with it.”
The club secured a lease on a boat shed from the Applecross Estate last winter, which has allowed them to have a hub to store and launch the skiff.
However, they are now looking to raise funds to purchase safety equipment, life jackets and radios.
They would also like to improve the boat shed to have changing room facilities for wild swimmers.
Mr Watson said: “We want it to be a hub for social events, barbecues and launches. We want to link it with the other community interests such as the swimming club.”
ARC currently has a seasonal membership fee of £24 per individual and £26 for families which allows them to make some money. They are also looking for pledges from supporters.
Alison Hewitt, also a member of the steering group, said: “We’ve made a membership fee to cover the costs of the boat shed and replace any kit. All the safety kit belongs to Gregor at the moment. In order to repair and replace things, we need funds.”
The club has been a success for the community with 30 people already having tried the boat in a community of around 200 people.
Ms Hewitt added: “It’s great introducing people to get out onto the water and do it in a fun way. It’s a good thing for the community and just getting people out and enjoying themselves.”
ARC initially managed to get sponsors of around £6000 for materials and labour when first getting the skiff boat built. The group has thanked the Applecross Inn, Northwind Engineering and Alfie Edwards for these first donations.
The skiff is called the go Go which suggests progressive movement and was chosen by ARC’s sadly departed chair Jackie Liubia from a list of old boats in the Inner Sound.
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