As I’ve been around the region over the winter, visiting clubs, helping run the Winter Forums and the Regional Training Day, I’ve met many, many volunteers putting in the time to support our clubs and develop watersports in the south-west. No doubt there are people in your club who deserve recognition – it’s time to get your nominations in for this year’s Volunteer Awards. Celebrating both long-standing and younger volunteers, the awards recognise all those who have contributed to the sport and made an impact in their communities. Nominations close on Tuesday 02 May.
Cruising Conference
The first SW Cruising Conference since 2018 took place at South Devon College Marine Academy on 11 March and was a sell-out success. Attendance exceeded all expectations, bookings were closed over a week before the event because they had reached the venue’s capacity, and we’ve had great feedback.
Find out more about how it went.
A massive ‘well done’ to members of the regional team who organised the event and huge thanks to South Devon College Marine Academy for hosting the event.
Regional Training Day
Instructors, coaches and others involved in delivering training spent a great day on and off the water at Rockley Watersports for the SW Regional Training Day 2023.
Thanks go to all the trainers who delivered on the day, as well as to Rockley Watersports for hosting and keeping everyone supplied with tea, biscuits, doughnuts and cake as well as a lovely hot lunch!
If you’d like us to visit your club and help out with some instructor support let me know.
Claim your free ticket to Southampton International Boat Show
The Southampton International Boat Show returns to Mayflower Park on 15-24 September 2023. RYA members can take advantage of an exclusive FREE ticket plus up to two half-price tickets – but don’t forget, the free ticket must be redeemed before Tuesday 11 April!
Time to Talk sessions for Training Centres
Time to Talk sessions offer you a chance to talk with people from other similar Training Centres to your own in the South West region. They’re a chance to find out about the opportunities and challenges within the region and share your ideas and learning.
I will also be giving a short update about inspections and any other relevant information. Book the session most suited to you:
Power and PWC Training Centres 02 May 1300 to 1400
Multi-discipline Training Centres 03 May 1300 to 1400
Clubs with Training Centres 04 May 1930 to 2030
Junior racing news from Regional Performance Manager, Duncan West
The British Youth Sailing Dinghy Regional Junior Championships will be an exciting Devon festival for junior sailors on 17/18 June, thanks to Royal Torbay Yacht Club (RTYC) and Paignton Sailing Club (PSC). The two clubs are helping the RYA to organise the event, providing committee boats, RIBS, volunteers and dinghies for the Rookie fleet.
The South and SW Windsurfing event is on 10/11 June at Axbridge Reservoir.
Get those bookings in!
RJC Windsurfing
RJC Dinghy
We have three Race Coach Level 2 courses planned for the region, and one is already fully booked. You can still book a place at North Devon Yacht Club 13/14 May or Exe Sailing Club 03/04 June
Both courses are open to all RYA members at a cost of £125
RDO Rob Howlett
07876 330374
rob.howlett@rya.org.uk