Royal National Mod News

Mod on the Ocean Wave

Published: 20 Sep 2010

Caithness is the proud host of the National Mòd this year and its associated Fringe is staging a wide range of events. The ambitious and innovative programme extends beyond the traditional fare to include a Surfing Taster Session in celebration of Thurso’s uniqueness as a world class surfing destination. This event aims to introduce the uninitiated to the sport of surfing, and particularly to foster the involvement of local youth, although all age groups above 8 are welcome to attend.

The inspiration for the event is local surfing enthusiast, Sheila Finlayson. She is spearheading the Mòd Fringe surfing activities, arranging coaching from members of the prestigious British Surfing Association at beginner and intermediate levels.

Taster sessions will be available on Tuesday 12th October at Dunnet beach at 10.00, 1130, 1330, 1500 and 1600 hours. Those taking part must be 8+ years (with adult supervision for anyone under 16) and while these sessions are free donations would be welcome. Sheila, along with Mike Heddle, will lead the series of short taster session and will provide the essential equipment and facilities. Sessions will be limited to six per session so it is essential to book your place in advance.

In the longer term, Sheila has hopes to inspire the re-surgence of the area’s former surfing club, the North Shore Surf Club. The beaches of the local coastline are unrivalled in surfing circles, ranging from the sweep of white sands at Melvich to the powerful waves of Brims Ness, bearing the full force of the North Atlantic. Sheila hopes to harness the potential offered by this varied and pristine coastline to form a surfing club for the benefit of current and future generations.

Anyone who is interested in attending the Surfing Taster Session should contact Sheila on 01847 890730, mobile 07908593322 or by email to northtuath@yahoo.co.uk. If anyone has surplus surfing equipment which they would like to donate it can be handed in to Homeaid in Princes Street, Thurso before 30 September – mark it for the attention of The Mòd Surfers.

In the meantime, the Mòd Fringe organisers are also interested in donations of general household paint from the public to paint screens for various Mòd Fringe activities. All colours are welcome, especially bright, vibrant colours, in both gloss and emulsion. Yatching varnish would be appreciated too. Partly used tins are welcomed as well as full ones. Paint should be handed in to Annie Kieran at Thurso Library’s Swanson Gallery by Tuesday 28th September – 1pm-5pm (Mon to Wed), 1pm-8pm (Fri) or 10am-1pm (Saturday).

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