Clubs in the Midlands are invited to use an RYA events trailer and other support from the regional team to promote boating and raise awareness about their activities.
RYA Midlands has two event trailers available for clubs to use at their open days or at local high footfall events such as county shows and festivals.
The event trailers are available free of charge for RYA Affiliated clubs and centres in the region and include a gazebo, flags and leaflets. One of the trailers also includes a dinghy training simulator on a swivel stand to encourage engagement.
Support with resources for attending big local events to connect with new audiences is also available via the RYA Midlands Regional Volunteer Team.
County show
Rutland Sailing Club always aims to have a stand at its local county show in the first week of June, then holds its own ‘Discover Sailing’ open day a week or two later.
As Rear Commodore David Wilkins explains: “The Rutland County Show attracts thousands so the club uses the opportunity to have a stand to tell people about sailing and invite them to sign up for our open day. It’s a good way of reaching out to a lot of people.”
The Rutland County Show attracts visitors of all ages and backgrounds and having a stand in addition to the club’s usual marketing mix enables the club to:
- talk to people about what sailing and the club can offer
- discuss the health and wellbeing benefits of getting on the water
- highlight the popularity of boating as a family and lifelong sport
- explain that the club offers something for everyone, including social sailing, cruising, youth activities and racing in a wide variety of boats
- sign up people to try sailing and other activities at the club’s open day
David, who is a member of the RYA Midlands Regional Volunteer Team, adds: “Combining the high footfall Rutland County Show and subsequent sailing club open day has proved to be a very positive way to grow club membership and introduce many people to the great sport of sailing. In 2022, the club also used the RYA Midlands event trailer and training simulator boat to enhance its display at the Show.”
Further information
Clubs and centres in the region are invited to get in touch if they would like to borrow an event trailer or seek support with having a stand at a high footfall event. The event trailers are also available for club/centre open days.
Contact the RYA Midlands regional team with the name of your club/centre and the date and details of the event you are hosting or wish to attend.
Remember there is also lots of RYA support available for clubs hosting open days, with access to promotional materials and a wealth of online resources. Visit Discover & ReDiscover Sailing for everything you need to run a successful event!
