Sandbank pupils were treated to an unexpected nautical sight when they arrived at school on Tuesday – a fleet of five dinghies from Holy Loch Sailing Club anchored in their playground.
Ahead of this weekend’s annual Polaris Regatta–a two day event of races held on the Holy Loch–instructors and cadets from the club visited the school to promote the enjoyment of sailing and how to sail safely.
Cadets and P7 pupils, Andrew Armstrong and Anna White, put on interesting and skilled demonstrations, explained how much fun they have sailing and the challenges involved–such as learning how to capsize safely and to avoid a boom on the head.
The children were encouraged to don life jackets, climb aboard the dinghies and set sail – albeit on dry land.
They were supported by ex-pupils, Ruaridh Armstrong (S3 at Dunoon grammar School) and Archie and Barnaby Munns (S6), and club secretary Catriona Craig–all of whom will be taking part in this weekend’s Regatta.
Joining in the sailing were Toward Sailing Club’s Commodore Gill Judd, who works at the school, and her daughter Ellie.
Polaris is the final event in the club’s sailing season.
As well as cadets and experienced sailors from their own club, HLSC is looking forward to welcoming sailors from Toward and further afield to join in a weekend of racing and social activities.
Those interested in watching the racing are invited to the clubhouse (under-18s must be accompanied by an adult) or to Lazaretto Beach this Saturday and Sunday from 11am.
Further information about the weekend events is available on the club website
