Stranraer Water Sports Association (SWSA) is set to host ‘The Long Ryan’ on Saturday, 26th April, marking the beginning of a packed water sports season for Stranraer. The Long Ryan is a ten nautical mile row/sail around the shores of Loch Ryan for coastal rowing skiffs and sailing dinghies.
Six skiffs and four dinghies, including two boats from Stranraer Coastal Rowing Club, will be competing in this fun event that offers unique challenges for rowers and sailors. Unlike traditional regattas that focus solely on speed, The Long Ryan incorporates elements such as maintaining the straightest course possible, and special challenges at designated points along the route, so it’s not necessarily the fastest boat that wins.
Kevin Packer (Pax), Trustee of Stranraer Water Sports Association, who organises the event said:
“The Long Ryan offers something a little different from standard regattas, it’s designed to test the all-round skills of crews while providing a scenic tour of Loch Ryan. It’s a really fun event to open what promises to be a very exciting season for water sports in Stranraer.”
Stranraer has a growing reputation as a water sports destination. As construction progresses on the new Water Sports Hub, SWSA is also preparing to welcome thousands of visitors this summer for major events including Stranraer SkiffieWorlds, the world championship of St Ayles class of coastal rowing, taking place from 6th to 12th July, and the Fin & Foil Championships in August.
Wendi Cuffe, a Trustee of Stranraer Water Sports Association, added:
“Events like The Long Ryan showcase the perfect conditions Loch Ryan offers for water sports, and we are looking forward to welcoming teams from Troon and Annan, as well as local Galloway teams from Wigtown and Portpatrick, this weekend. It’s a fantastic way to start a very exciting summer. As we prepare to welcome competitors from around the world for SkiffieWorlds in July, this weekend’s event highlights Stranraer’s growing reputation as a premier water sports destination.”
