Want to get involved in maintaining and operating a traditional wooden sailing vessel? There are a number of different ways you can volunteer to safeguard, care for and sail this unique heritage asset.
Learn more29 September 2019
The Vevoe Trophy for Swan Sail Trainee of the Year 2019 was presented to twenty-three-year-old Drew Manson, from Brae, at the Swan Trust’s end of season gathering. Supported by Sail Training Shetland, Drew was one of ten Swan Trainees who took part in race one of the Tall Ships Races 2019, from Aalborg in Denmark to Fredrikstad in Norway. Aubrey Jamieson, in presenting the trophy, reflected on the tremendous contribution Drew made to the voyage, particularly his teamwork, conscientiousness and willingness to help everyone onboard.
This is not the first time Drew has sailed on Swan and his enthusiasm shines through. Speaking about this trip he stated the whole experience was ‘excellent from start to finish’, with some of the most enjoyable aspects being: The sense of peace and mindfulness gained from being part of a crew working together at sea; The enjoyment of the company and comradery; The parties at port and seeing Scandinavia. He also said he'd love to be more involved and thanked all parties for their patience, kindness and hard work in keeping the Swan sailing and trips going.
Swan Trust Operations Committee Chairman, Tommy Allan, said “Opportunities for youth are at the heart of the Swan Trust, and it was great to welcome Drew aboard again. Drew used his previous experience to both help those onboard for the first time and improve his own skills. We congratulate Drew on his outstanding participation this year, it is our youth who will ensure Swan continues to offer sailing opportunities into the future and to have trainees like Drew is vital to our ongoing success. We wish him all the best in the future and hope to welcome him onboard again soon.”
Sail training goes far beyond sailing instruction, it uses the experience of being at sea to help young people learn about themselves and discover hidden strengths and talents. Sail trainees who embrace life on board reap the benefits through increased self-confidence, independence, team working, communication skills and testing their personal and physical boundaries, with some going on to pursue careers at sea.
The Vevoe Trophy was commissioned by the Swan Trust and named after the home of the Simpson family from Whalsay, who were closely involved with owning and managing the Swan for over 50 years during her herring fishing career.
The trophy is a replica of Swans original wheel, beautifully made by the late Lowrie Robertson of Unst, with assistance on intricate details from Maurice Manson and Ian Smith of Lerwick and Peter Mouat of Unst. The award was presented at the Trusts end of season gathering, an informal event to thank crew, trainees, volunteers and supporters for another successful season.
Learn more about what the Swan means to Drew.
Anyone can sail on Swan, for details of trips available to book check out our upcoming trips
You can find out more about our youth sail training here.
Want to get involved in maintaining and operating a traditional wooden sailing vessel? There are a number of different ways you can volunteer to safeguard, care for and sail this unique heritage asset.
Learn more
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