Clubs in Wales are being urged to make the most of the RYA’s Discover Sailing campaign to boost their membership in 2024.
The annual campaign will again be running from May to September to provide resources and support for clubs wanting to run open days or taster sessions.
As ever it’s an ideal opportunity for clubs to reach out to their local communities to raise awareness about their activities and attract new members.
Hester Walker, West Wales Club Development Officer/ Swyddog Datblygu Clybiau Orllewin Cymru, said: “Discover Sailing creates a real vibe because you’re actively looking to engage with new people and we know from experience that your pride and enthusiasm for the sport and your club really shines through when you open your doors to visitors.
“Now is the time to think about it if you haven’t already. It doesn’t have to be a big open day, you might want to offer an evening or two instead, or bookable taster sessions. Whatever way you want to raise awareness about your offer, you can make Discover Sailing work for you!”
Explore the RYA Discover Sailing hub for your club:
- The RYA Discover Sailing shop is now open for 2024 with weekly print runs and up to £75 of free resources available for RYA Affiliated clubs, with additional Welsh language versions available within the offer.
- There are heaps of free downloadable resources at the online RYA Discover Sailing hub to help you with event planning and promotion, including checklists, posters, graphics and templates, along with Welsh language options.
- Take a look at the ReDiscover Sailing resources to help your club encourage members back onto the water following the winter months and to re-engage with lapsed members or participants of the sport.
- Upload the details of your open day/s or taster sessions to appear on the online RYA Discover Sailing map, which helps people to find their local venue.
Hester adds: “Remember to tag @RYACymruWales when you share your dates on social media and we can then share them too!”
Among the Welsh clubs already signed up and appearing on the RYA Discover Sailing map to promote their activities via this year’s campaign are: Merthyr Tydfil Sailing Club, Tresaith Mariners, Llandegfedd Sailing Club, Saundersfoot Sailing Club and Cardiff Bay Sailing Club.
Visit the RYA Discover Sailing one-stop hub for clubs and sign up!
Picture: Discover Sailing at Merthyr Tydfil SC 2023