Musselburgh Yacht club to set sail on bumper year of events

 Sailors in Musselburgh are weighing anchor on one of their busiest year’s ahead, with about 70 events planned.

The Yacht Club’s committee has already planned 30 dinghy races, 20 yacht races and 20 more additional supported dinghy sailing events.

A wide variety of training courses are also planned for this season and, although only offered to members, new members are always welcome at the club regardless of age or experience.

This year’s packed training calendar includes beginner and improver dinghy sailing courses, racing tuition to teach starting procedures, rules and strategy and a seamanship course in which sailors will learn advanced techniques and how to solve problems on the water.

Dave Morrissey, sailing secretary, said: “While planning this year’s calendar, we have made an effort to provide a variety of activities for our members, whether they have recently taken beginner courses and need to build confidence before going solo and joining races, or have been sailing for a while and would like to try something new.

“Sailing is actually quite an affordable sport to learn with us, as the boats and essential buoyancy aids are all provided.

“Beginners just need some old trainers and some warm clothing.”

In the last few years, the club has expanded its fleet of boats.

For budding young sailors aged eight to 16, the club will run an expanded range of dedicated courses during the summer.

Inez added: “These youth training events will hopefully be as successful as last year’s, which saw days of glorious sunshine and perfect winds.

“The 2023 youth events will include beginner, improver and advanced dinghy sailing, start racing, and a powerboat course.”

The boats are due to be craned into the harbour on March 24.