Positive Waves of Change for Sailing in Orkney ahead of 2025 International Island Games
by Toni Dowling 5 Dec 2024 01:18 NZDT
Positive Waves of Change for Sailing in Orkney ahead of 2025 International Island Games © Orkney 2025 International Island Games
Orkney is already experiencing the transformative legacy of the Orkney 2025 Games, with a surge in interest in sailing setting a course for the sport's growth in the islands.
The Games are not only enhancing participation but also raising competitive standards within the local sailing community, leaving a lasting mark long after the event.
For the first time, Orkney will host a full sailing team of four athletes in the International Island Games, a significant milestone for the islands. Following the 2023 Games in Guernsey, where three sailors represented Orkney, the anticipation of hosting the 2025 Games has driven a remarkable rise in competitive sailing.
John Orr, a member of the Orkney 2025 Sailing Organising Committee said: "Hosting the Games has already started to leave a legacy. Up to ten local sailors have been undergoing coaching in preparation, and for the first time, we'll be holding selection trials to finalise the team. This not only elevates the sport locally but also ensures skills and enthusiasm are passed on to the next generation of sailors."
Ahead of the Orkney Games, sportscotland has awarded funding to The Royal Yachting Association Scotland (RYAS) to purchase a fleet of 24 International Laser Class Association (ILCA) dinghies. These boats will be lent to Orkney Sailing Club for the Games and then sold to sailing clubs across Scotland at reduced rates. Orkney Islands Council has provided grants to local sailing clubs, enabling them to purchase some of the boats after the event. With most of the fleet remaining in Orkney, local sailing opportunities will be significantly enhanced, while the remaining boats will broaden access to high-quality equipment for clubs across Scotland.
Additionally, the ILCA dinghies will be utilised by local clubs for both introductory sailing lessons and advanced race preparation, ensuring the long-term development of the sport.
The Orkney sailing community has also received generous support from local businesses, enabling the successful organisation of the event:
- Scottish Sea Farms has provided support boats and crews to lay inflatable course markers.
- Orbital Marine Power has contributed additional safety boats.
- Orkney Marinas has offered the use of their facilities, simplifying logistics for local volunteers.
The Orkney 2025 sailing event, hosted from Hatston Slip, is a collective effort by the sailing clubs of Stromness, Kirkwall, and Holm, with volunteers uniting to deliver an exceptional competition.
The ILCA class competition will see up to two ILCA 7 and two ILCA 6 competitors per island racing across ten events, with one discard. Team rankings will combine the best three results in each class per race.
To enhance the spectator experience, every boat will be digitally tracked using the TracTrac Event Management System, providing real-time updates on competitor positions and performance.
A practice race will precede the main event, allowing competitors to familiarise themselves with the course and conditions.
With the combination of improved facilities, new equipment, and elevated competition standards, the Orkney 2025 Games is setting the stage for sailing to thrive in the islands. The skills, experience, and enthusiasm generated will benefit local clubs and young sailors for years to come, ensuring a lasting legacy.
Kirsty Talbot Games Director at Orkney Island Games said: "It's inspiring to see the growth of competitive sailing in Orkney as we prepare to host the Island Games.
"Orkney 2025 will provide local sailors with a unique chance to represent Orkney on home waters, showcasing their talent and commitment. With the Games fast approaching, we are delighted by the positive impact they are already having on the sport and look forward to the lasting legacy they will leave behind."
Chief Executive of sportscotland, Forbes Dunlop, said: "It is fantastic to see the Orkney 2025 International Island Games creating such excitement and driving significant growth in the local sailing community as the event nears. The investment in equipment and coaching is not only preparing athletes for competition but also establishing a foundation for the sport's future in Orkney, and will also benefit other clubs across Scotland beyond the games.
"Orkney 2025 will be a historic moment for the islands, offering local athletes the rare opportunity to compete at home in a major multi-sport event. The Games will bring lasting benefits, from improved facilities to a stronger sense of community, ensuring their legacy endures for years to come."
The Orkney 2025 Island Games are set to take place between the 12th-18th of July and will have the privilege of hosting the 20th international Island Games in its 40th year. The games welcome attendees and competitors from all 24 island groups.
For more information on the Orkney 2025 Island Games, please visit www.orkney2025.com