Making waves!

Uist Coastal Rowing Club enjoyed their first row of the year on a beautiful calm evening in late March.

The weather was not so kind to them, however, for their 5 Mile Challenge at the end of April, as Club Secretary Marwa MacDonald explained: “The competition dates were set over a 5 day weather window to allow the challenge to be completed. The high winds were keen to stay with us, which made it difficult for training. This continued into the challenge itself, with an easterly wind blowing into Lochmaddy, the crew decided to keep it short and repetitive to reach the required distance. It was fresh winds with strong white horses at times, but the crew were in good spirits and battled on.”

“The reserve team, put together from Club members and invited guest rowers, successfully completed 5 miles on the

22nd April. The challenge crew had hoped to get out on the 23rd, but alas the winds were too strong and the attempt was abandoned – Safety first always!”

Although the challenge crew didn’t get out to complete the row, the reserve team’s row was submitted into the competition.

In May, the local clubs came together to organise a two day coxswain course. Uist, Barra and Berneray welcomed Topher Dawson from Ullapool Coastal Rowing Club to deliver the training. Club members enjoyed a great weekend, meeting members from other clubs and share experiences and gain knowledge.

Marwa added: “Looking ahead to the better weather, we hope for more rowing and welcome anyone who wishes to join in and give it a go. Please contact us via our facebook page or email uistcoastalrowing@gmail.com.”