News

Meeting the 82-year-old Sailor of the Year 2021!

Our Sporting Memories Club in Musselburgh, East Lothian, had a full house on Tuesday 24 January when they welcomed Murdoch McGregor, aged 82 from Alloa, Scotland.

Our regular members at the Musselburgh club were joined by yachting and sailing enthusiasts from the local area to hear about Murdoch’s epic adventure and his words of encouragement for leading an active lifestyle where possible

Raising Awareness for Mental Health UK

Murdoch decided, after only taking up the Sport about 10 years ago, that he was going to sail solo around the UK in 2021 to raise funds and awareness for Mental Health UK. A close family connection spurred him into action and he set off in Spring 21 from his home port near Alloa in Clackmannanshire for an epic 10-week voyage around the sometimes treacherous coastline of the UK.

Calm in the North Sea

His trip took in the furthest flung corners of the UK including Lands End, Cape Wrath and the Pentland Firth – not seas for the feint hearted. But for the man who says that he only feels peace and calm when sailing in the North Sea or the Baltic Sea in his small craft, The Artemis, it was a journey of incredible scenery and stories. On completing the journey in 2021, Murdoch became the oldest person to do so solo in the UK and subsequently crowned UK Sailor of the Year. Speaking to the audience at our club in Musselburgh, Murdoch stated that he hoped to continue to inspire others that age is no barrier and to ‘Get out of the Big chair”, even if it just for a walk around the local park.

This is a lovely clip from BBC Sport interviewing Murdoch to find out just what makes him tick.

Inspired by Murdoch? Come and join one of our clubs!

You don’t need to be an award-winning sportsman to join your local Sporting Memories Club. All are welcome and as Murdoch says “It’s a great way to get out of that Big chair” meet people for some gentle exercise, sporting reminiscences and fun activities. Find your nearest club to get started by visiting our ‘Find A Club’ page here -