Ready to row: Shieldaig regatta and fete attracts a bumper entry
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THE spectacular scene is being set for a Wester Ross fete and rowing regatta this weekend.
The regatta takes place on Saturday and raises money for village projects that support the local community.
The fun-filled day has become a highlight in the local calendar and includes live music and Scottish cuisine and culminates in a famous open-air ceilidh on the shore.
The Scottish Salmon Company (SSC) has announced that it is to sponsor the event for the fifth consecutive year.
Since the skiff regatta began in 2015, following an increase in popularity for skiff rowing in Scotland’s coastal communities, the regatta has gone from strength-to-strength.
This year, a high tide has led to an increase in the number of boats taking part in the competition, with 12 clubs travelling to Shieldaig to compete. These include Avoch Community Rowing Club;Burghead Coastal Rowing Club; Cromarty Community Rowing Club; Golspie Rowing Club; Loch Carron Coastal Rowing Association; Newhaven Costal Rowing Club; Port Seton Community Coastal Rowing Club ; Portsoy Coastal Rowing Club; Queensferry Rowing Club; St Andrews Coastal Rowing Club; Sutors Skiffies Rowing Club and Ullapool Coastal Rowing Club.
Local host club Shieldaig and Loch Torridon will also be taking part.
The 2km race course, which circumnavigates the island, comprises six races – Open Men’s, Women’s and Mixed.
The overall winner, decided by cumulative points, will receive the Liz Pritchard Memorial Trophy and a side of smoked salmon, provided by SSC.
Craig Anderson, chief executive of The Scottish Salmon Company, said: “We are proud to have sponsored the Shieldaig Regatta since its revival in 2015.
“The hard work involved in the organisation and running of the event is recognised by the ongoing success of the competition which continues to grow year on year. We wish everyone involved the best of luck.”
Lisa O’Brien, chairwoman of the Shieldaig and Loch Torridon Coastal Rowing Club, said: “We are all looking forward to Saturday’s event where we will welcome other rowing teams to our yearly competition. We are particularly looking forward to welcoming the new clubs to the Regatta.
“Our rowing team has been committed to regular training sessions in preparation for the event as the competition continues to grow each year. We are looking forward to putting our hard work and dedication into practice. Good luck to all the teams!”
