Ayr family sails to sailing glory

Sep 3 2010 by Stuart Wilson, Ayrshire Post (main ed)

FROM the outside, they look like any other family.

But after leaving dry land, these four sailors become one of Scotland’s top amateur teams.

Parents Christine and Robin Murray have recruited daughters Erin, six, and Katie, four, to join their winning crew.

The family is riding the crest of a wave after scooping nine trophies at one of the country’s biggest sailing events.

And they’ve lifted the lid on the family bond which swept them to success.

Christine, of Ayr, revealed: “Sailing is in the family’s blood and the girls love to come cruising with us.

“I met Robin when we used to go sailing on a friend’s boat and we got married after that.

“I suppose it was inevitable that Erin and Katie would follow in our footsteps, but this was the first time they’d sailed with us in competition and they did so well.”

The family powered to glory in the West Highland Yachting Week’s annual regatta.

The overall trophy was among their haul, with the youngest crew members playing a key part in their success.

Erin, who attends Wellington School, revealed: “I got to steer the boat at the finish line – it was really fun.”

And Katie added: “I was running from one side of the boat to the other to do welly hanging.”

The dynamic duo were the life and soul of the craft, Elf Too, which triumphed in the 121-strong fleet which raced around venues like Oban and Tobermory.

The West Highland Yachting Week is regarded as one of the most important on the Scottish saling calendar.

Robin, 37, admitted: “It’s great having the girls on board and they are a big part of the boat.

“This was their first experience of racing and they seemed to love it, although they inevitably got bored at times.

“Still, they had their DVDs below deck so they had plenty to keep them occupied.”

And the proud dad added: “Doing so well in this race is a big achievement for us and it’s extra special to have all the family involved.”