Sailors battle it out in annual Thurso river race

Sailors from Pentland Firth Yacht Club took part in the annual Thurso river race, which takes participants on a two-way journey from Scrabster to the river footbridge.

The journey is not without excitement as sailors must navigate their way around creel lines, breakers and, occasionally, the odd surfer enjoying Thurso East.

Ian Carlisle and his young crew were in their Bosun dinghy Bundaberg, Thomas McAlonan in a Topper, Katie Carlisle in a Laser Pico, Marjory and Dave Lord in Laser 4.7 dinghies and Martin Lord in his Laser.

Once all boats were ready, the countdown started and the boats headed towards Thurso.

Dave and Martin Lord were involved in early tussles for positioning, with contact between the dinghies.

Light and changeable winds tested the skills of even the most experienced sailors as they raced across from Scrabster. The race was led by the Laser and Laser 4.7 dinghies, followed by Ian Carlisle's Bundaberg and Thomas McAlonan's Topper.

As the pack entered the River Thurso, elbows were out and every position was worth fighting for. Martin Lord emerged in the lead, closely stalked by Dave and Marjory.

Final standings were based on a handicap system with Marjory in first, Dave in second, Thomas in third, Martin in fourth and Ian in fifth.

Anyone interested in joining the club or giving sailing a go (no experience required) can contact pentlandfirthyc@gmail.com

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