Thousands of people of all ages and abilities took to water recently to experience sailing and windsurfing with RYA Push the Boat Out.
A record 351 clubs and centres opened their doors to the public, with more than 500 events being held across the UK. Amongst them were four clubs on the Isle of Wight including Yarmouth Sailing Club; Gurnard Sailing Club; Royal Victoria Yacht Club and Brading Haven Yacht Club.
John Smith, Rear Commodore Sailing at Yarmouth SC described their day:
“Our trial sails were very popular, and so were the refreshments and bar! From the many visitors that we had we have recruited around 15 new members, which we are very pleased about. We are now making plans to quickly get involved in the club”.
Meanwhile at Gurnard Sailing Club, fresh cakes were baked specially by club members to welcome visitors to the clubhouse. The beach front club welcomed over 30 people and some 20 of them went out on the water. The weather was idyllic, warm, sunny and just the right amount of wind.
Club Commodore Judith Wickens said:
“We’ve taken visitors out on our Picos and Fevas. A number of them said they would like to sign up as members too”.
Charlie, aged 9, went for a sail on a Pico. He said:
“I’ve been out sailing before and I did a course, but I want to get more involved in dinghy sailing. This has been a great chance to have another go”.
Brading Haven SC and Royal Victoria YC also reported very successful days, getting plenty of people out on the water and providing some superb catering.
Jackie Bennetts, RYA Club Support Advisor, said:
“This has been a fantastic year for Push the Boat Out. “It’s great to see so many newcomers embrace this opportunity to try sailing, and we hope to see them back out on the water soon”.
Love Boating? To find out more about the RYA call 02380 604 159, email [email protected] or visit www.rya.org.uk.
