Finlay Carson MSP Hails SkiffieWorlds 2025 as “World-Class Showcase” for Stranraer and Loch Ryan
Galloway and West Dumfries MSP Finlay Carson has praised the organisers, volunteers, and community behind SkiffieWorlds 2025, calling the international coastal rowing championship a “world-class showcase” for Stranraer and the wider region.
The event, which concluded on Saturday under glorious sunshine, brought together a record-breaking 78 clubs and over 2,000 rowers from across four continents, making it the largest gathering of St Ayles skiffs in history. Hosted on the calm waters of Loch Ryan, the five-day championship cemented Stranraer’s growing reputation as a premier destination for major water sports events.
“SkiffieWorlds 2025 has been a phenomenal success—not just in terms of participation and competition, but in the way it has brought our community together and showcased the very best of what Stranraer has to offer,” Mr Carson said.
“The dedication of the Stranraer Water Sports Association, the warmth of the local community, and the stunning natural setting of Loch Ryan have all combined to deliver an unforgettable event. I want to congratulate everyone involved for their hard work and vision.”
Mr Carson also highlighted the economic and cultural impact of the event, which built on the success of SkiffieWorlds 2019 and is expected to generate millions of pounds for the local economy. The shoreside festival in Agnew Park, featuring live music, theatre, family activities, and artisan markets, drew thousands of spectators and added to the celebratory atmosphere.
“This is about more than sport—it’s about community pride, economic opportunity, and putting Stranraer firmly on the map as a world-class water sports hub,” Mr Carson added.
The event took place as construction continues on Stranraer’s new £6.7 million Water Sports Hub, due to open in summer 2026. Mr Carson said the facility will be a “game-changer” for the region, supporting training, tourism, and future international events.
“With the new hub on the horizon and events like SkiffieWorlds setting the standard, Stranraer is poised to become a leading centre for water sports in the UK and beyond.”
The local MSP also extended his congratulations to Dundrum Coastal Rowing Club from Northern Ireland, who successfully defended their world title, and to all the competitors who travelled from as far afield as Australia, South Africa, and the Netherlands.
“The spirit of camaraderie, competition, and community on display this week has been truly inspiring. Stranraer has done Scotland proud.”
