Stranraer St. ayles skiff project to host skiffieworlds 2019:

Stranraer in South West Scotland has been chosen as the venue for Skiffieworlds 2019.  The hosts of the competition are the Stranraer St. Ayles Skiff Project.  News about the dates will follow in due course.

Skiffieworlds is the World Championship for the St Ayles Skiff class of coastal rowing boat.  The Championships are held every three years. Ullapool in North West Scotland hosted the inaugural championship in 2013, and  Skiffieworlds 2016 was held at Strangford Lough in Northern Ireland.  Previous championships were attended by crews representing local communities from as far apart as Australia, New Zealand, USA, Canada, Netherlands. England, Northern Ireland and Scotland.  Over 1000 competitors are expected to take part at Skiffieworlds 2019, and it is hoped that newly built boats will encourage participants from Eire, Denmark and France to attend, along with anywhere else that builds a St Ayles Skiff before July 2019.

Robbie Wightman, SCRA convenor, said today:  “International delegations went to all the potential venues for Skiffieworlds2019. We were  very impressed by the proposals put forward by Stranraer and are delighted that they have accepted the offer to host the championships. The Scottish Coastal Rowing Association looks forward to working with the local organisers to put together a memorable event for locals and visitors, featuring safe, spectator friendly, exciting and enjoyable racing along with giving everyone a chance to experience the beauty and the welcome that Stranraer, Loch Ryan and the wider area of Galloway have to offer."

Raymond Mundle, Chair of the Stranraer St Ayles Skiff Project said "We are all delighted with the news of Stranraer's successful bid, and look forward to working hard with all concerned to deliver an outstanding World Championship."  Wendy Cuffe also from the working group added "This will bring a real buzz to Stranraer.  It presents a great opportunity to showcase the wonderful Loch Ryan and will be fantastic for the town , the people and the area”.