Rebecca Barnard from Mull has won the sailing experience of a lifetime, in the tall ships race. 

The traineeship is funded jointly by Argyll and Bute Council and Malin Waters.  19 year old Rebecca will get hands on experience on the ship over nine days, while sailing from Greenock to Lerwick. 

Rebecca, a Naval Architecture student at Strathclyde University, commented on how valuable the experience would be.  “I’m really excited about taking part in the tall ships race, and as well as being a great experience it will allow me to enhance my sailing skills and learn about the workings of a tall ship.  It ties in well with my degree course, and am so proud to be representing Argyll and Bute in the race.”

You can follow Rebecca’s journey through her twitter account @tallshipwinner1.  She will be updating followers on the journey and their progress throughout the race. 

Councillor Neil Mackay, spokesperson for enterprise, energy, culture and tourism said: “I am delighted that the council has had a part in creating such a unique learning experience, and believe Rebecca will be a great representative of Argyll and Bute’s young people. 

“Marine tourism is a growing economic driver for Scotland and the council has played a key role in the development of Malin Waters, which is a terrific global platform to market our ports harbours and marinas which are necessary safe havens for the enthusiastic sailors from around the world who visit our shores.”