14th Ayrshire Beavers, Cubs and Scouts We are sailing

The 14th Ayrshire Beavers, Cubs and Scouts turned into young sailors for the night at Prestwick Sailing Club.

On the night the trusty sailing instructors at the club inspired the young Scouts to enjoy life on the ocean wave.

The idea behind the sailing sessions was to help the team learn about teamwork, engineering, history, patience, oceanography and ecology.

Fiona Hainey, Scout Leader at the 14th Ayrshire Scout Group (Prestwick), said: “The young Scouts were given the opportunity to helm a dinghy, which made them feel as if they can accomplish anything they put their mind to. This confidence is hugely beneficial in a young person’s education and social life.”

The Beavers, Cubs and Scouts learned how to avoid collisions, as well as how to navigate through tight spaces and corners too.

Fiona said: “Before the young people could go out onto the sea, they were walked through the Five Essentials of sailing, then a quick run down of the boating terms for parts of the boat and they were sent out into Prestwick Bay.”

Each young person earned their Scout Sailing Stage 1 Activity Badge, for completing this amazing session on the water.

Fiona added: “Thanks to all the instructors that guided the 14th Ayrshire Scout Group. All the young people were treated to a hot chocolate and biscuit on their return to dry land, which did the trick of warming them up again!”

Cameron McIntyre, Chief Instructor, PSC said afterwards: “At Prestwick Sailing Club we are always keen to engage with local groups in offering the opportunity to experience the thrill of sailing and it has been great to see the young people of 14th Ayrshire Scout Group taking to the water.”

If you want to get involved, or join the Scouts Association in Ayrshire, there are groups across the Kyle and Carrick district.

To find more information on Kyle and Carrick Scout District go to https://www.kcscouts.scot/

And to find out more about Prestwick Sailing Club contact training@prestwicksailingclub.

Team spirit This group were only too happy to pose for a picture after returning to dry land

Delight This boy is clearly pleased at having atteined his Scout Sailing Stage 1 Activity Badge

All smiles These boys thought the sailing sessions were great fun and informative

Guidance It’s a learning curve under the watchful eyes of a coach

Adventure These two Scouts gained new skills and knowledge

Sailors The group are pictured with one of the Prestwick coaches

Popular There was a good attendance at the sailing sessions

Home time It’s time to pull the trailers back onto the shore

This pair successfully navigated their way back to dry land

Thumbs-up This hardy sailor is going places