Aimed at those aged 8-13 years who are able to sail a triangular course, this year the event will be held on Grafham Water on 17-18 June, alongside the main championships. You don’t even need to have your own boat, with boats provided at no extra charge (you can of course bring your own boat if you prefer).
With the sessions led by an experienced Senior Instructor, full instruction will be provided, and the event will look to develop sailors’ confidence and ability though a mixture of coaching and games both on and off the water. The focus will be on games with aims, getting a feel for sailing on a big stretch of water, sailing skills development, but most importantly having fun in a safe environment.
Last year, young sailors enjoyed activities including the ‘megasup’, kindly donated by Barton Marine. With activities revolving round the OnBoard character attributes, which include teamwork, determination, communication, independence, confidence and creativity, there were plenty of fun games and getting wet! Seeing the other fleets (Coached Regatta and Championship fleets) sailing on the same stretch of water also proved inspirational for the young sailors, having something to aspire to in future years.
Robbie Bell, Regional Development Officer for the East, said “It was inspiring to see so many young sailors at Grafham Water at last year’s event. The young people attending their first event as part of the OnBoard fleet were particularly impressive, they spent the weekend having fun and gaining confidence, working together and developing skills in a safe environment, this is what junior sailing is all about – we look forward to even more young people enjoying the event next month”
Camping is also available at Grafham Water Centre, so it can be a weekend for all the family. Entries can be for the Saturday only or the whole weekend – find out more and book now: https://regionaljuniorchamps.rya.org.uk/en/default/races/race-inscription/text/DinghyEastGrafhamWaterSailingClub-en/0