Coronavirus

Published 23:31 on 18 Mar 2020

To all Prestwick Sailing Club Members and Contacts,

As result of the current situation with COVID-19, and the recent Government advice, Prestwick Sailing Club Committee has decided to "pause" all club organised events until at least the end of April. Also, to prevent the spread of the virus the clubhouse should not be used during this "pause" period.

This decision has not been taken lightly, but health and safety is our number one priority.

We will keep all members updated through the website and Facebook.

Currently sailing will still possible from the dinghy compound and slipway whilst observing social separation. Being out on the water is probably one of the best ways of maintaining a good balance and staying fit and healthy in these testing times and whilst the above measures present inconveniences and challenges they do not prevent suitably experienced members, acting sensibly, from going sailing. The committee emphasises that the Club will be unable to provide safety cover, changing or shower facilities.

Any members who venture onto the water will be doing so at their own risk, and must follow the "Safety at Sea" Club Rules which are on the Club website. We strongly advise that you should only venture out in sight of other experienced sailors and that you should notify on-shore family or colleagues of your intended launch and return times and let them know when you are safely ashore.

We will continue to prepare for the new season, but there will be no organised club work parties. Whilst assistance is always very welcome, please put yourselves and your family first by staying at home if you, or anyone in your household, have symptoms.

We will be monitoring the situation and keeping in touch with RYA Scotland for the latest advice. As soon as the situation changes, we will communicate with all members.

We want to ensure that during this 'paused period' we stay connected with the Prestwick Sailing Club community so we plan to increase our online presence, and hope to hold online training and other online and virtual events. If we can't race for silverware and chocolates, we can award trophies in other ways.

We will review the situation in mid-April, or when the Government advice changes.

When "normal life" returns we will be able to restart activities almost immediately.

Stay safe and positive, we'll be back on the water soon.

Last updated 21:30 on 3 July 2023