TRAINING ACADEMY SUCCESS

Hard work has paid off for Strathclyde Loch Sailing Club after they received recognition as a Royal Yachting Association (RYA) training centre.

Under the leadership of commodore Wilson Couper, the club negotiated a demanding application process by developing a comprehensive set of guidelines, with backing from regional support officer Jack Mitchell and club secretary Des Donachie.

The club, which has been based at Strathclyde Country Park for 40 years, had to demonstrate their capability of delivering training by qualified instructors in a safe environment, led by Stuart Mccubbin.

Enthusiastic members refurbished the clubhouse and storage areas, and undertook a makeover of club boats.

In May the club took part in an annual RYA initiative to provide free taster sessions, to demonstrate sailing as a healthy and exciting sport, with tremendous success in recruiting adult and family groups.

Free lessons were provided throughout the summer, and junior fun days were particularly popular.

RYA carried out an in-depth inspection in July, to ensure the standard operating procedure could be met.

North Lanarkshire Council were supportive, agreeing to make changes to safety boats patrolling the loch, ensuring they came up to the required standard.

All of that paid off when the club was granted training centre approval, and members and trainees celebrated with a barbecue and family day on Sunday, September 29.

Secretary Des Donachie said: “Twentyseven members and trainees provided a great spectacle, with a fleet of 16 boats out on the loch. Everyone had great fun taking part in racing or training.

“Later Wilson was delighted to be able to award Stage One certificates to six junior members, the first to be awarded by the new training centre.”

For more information on the club, and how to join, contact Des Donachie by emailing secretary@ strathclydelochsailing.com or visit their website at strathclydelochsailing.com