Countdown to The Tall Ships Races 2023 begins!
Scores of young people from Shetland and Scotland will come together as part of their preparations for participating in this summer’s Tall Ships races.
In total 100 trainees will be involved in the international event, which stops off in Lerwick for four days at the end of July.
Sail Training Shetland is supporting 76 youngsters in the Cruise in Company leg from Fredrikstad in Norway to Lerwick. As part of that voyage, the ships may stop at several guest harbours in Norway and Scotland, including Cullivoe and Baltasound in the North Isles, before arriving in Lerwick on 26th July.
A further 24 trainees will set off from Lerwick on 29th July for the third and final racing leg of the 2023 event, to the Norwegian port of Arendal.
In preparation we have organised a series of briefings for participants to meet their crew mates, learn more about what is expected, and to raise any questions they have about involvement in such a high-profile event. With the races set to call in at Lerwick there is even more excitement this year.
Sail Training Shetland spokeswoman Melanie Henderson said there was a buzz among the group, with the races just a month away.
“There is always excitement for our trainees, whenever they are preparing to participate in the Tall Ships Races, but this year is extra special. The opportunity to be involved in an international event, the highlight being Lerwick is the only Scottish port in the series and home port for many participating.
“Not only will this summer’s sailing be great fun for the 100 young people taking part, but sail training gives them the life-changing experience of being at sea to help learn about themselves, discover hidden strengths and talents, and understand the value of working as a team. For those that take part it will be a truly unique experience they will never forget. We are grateful to all the new sponsors that have come onboard this year, to help remove the costs of participation and support trainees from their areas”.
