From the 13th to 15th September 2013, a few brave men have agreed to forego their usual weekend comforts to take charge of a 72ft Ocean Racing Yacht, to bunk for 2 nights in 'close' conditions and to don some lycra for a race around the Isle of Cumbrae. This weekend is going to be tough & as one of the 2009 challengers remarked 'harder than climbing Kilimanjaro.'

And all to raise funds for Ocean Youth Trust Scotland (OYTS)! 

OYT is a youth development charity committed to the personal and social development of young people. Their pioneering programme is known as 'Adventure under sail' and gives young people, regardless of their background or abilities the opportunity of learning new skills and strengths. Sailing helps build teamwork, communication, concentration and, often much needed, softer skills such as cooking, eating a meal together, living and working in a small environment.

These funds go towards 'Adventure Under Sail', the life changing experience that inspires young people and builds their personal & social skills for life ashore. In 2012, over 900 young people sailed with OYTS on residential voyages to promote lifelong learning, prospects & employability. With over 40% of these young people coming from disadvantaged backgrounds.

In 2012, OYTS raised funds for a crew of visually impaired young people to sail one of their yachts from La Coruna, Spain back to Greenock, an experience they may not otherwise have had.

The messages from the young people are testament to the work they do.

 "That would be the biggest thing - that you can go in feeling lost, anxious and uncertain of things and come out the other side with confidence...You've given us a great experience that is always going to be with us."

For more please watch:

http://vimeo.com/55870378