RYA Push the Boat Out gets the nation on the water
by Susie Nation-Grainger 20 May 2015 01:45 NZST
9-17 May 2015
Push the Boat Out action at Arun Youth Aqua Centre © Paul Wyeth
Thousands of people of all ages and abilities took to water over the past nine days to experience sailing and windsurfing with RYA Push the Boat Out (09-17 May 2015).
The national event which got underway last weekend saw over 340 sailing clubs and training centres up and down the country open their doors to welcome people with Push the Boat Out 'have a go' taster sessions and open days for all.
"RYA Push the Boat Out is all about getting people out on the water locally and giving them the chance to find out just how easy it is to get involved in sailing and windsurfing" explained RYA Club Support Advisor Jackie Bennetts.
"This year the event has been even bigger extending over nine days with even more clubs and centres taking part, hosting fantastic PTBO taster sessions and open days. We're now hoping that those who enjoyed their time on the water will be making plans to continue to go sailing!"
One of the clubs to take part were Hill Head Sailing Club in Hampshire. Vice Commodore Tomos Price said: "It's just been a great opportunity to open our doors and get people to come and enjoy the sport that we're all mad about. Every single person that volunteers here at the club gets a kick out of getting others on the water and everyone is happy that it went so well."
One visitor who experienced a taster session at Delph Sailing Club near Bolton said: "We really enjoyed it. Just that sense of being out there powered by mother nature- it was so exciting and really exhilarating! We'll definitely be coming back."
For more PTBO information and news visit www.rya.org.uk/go/PTBO
If you had a go at sailing this weekend and want to find out more information about how to get involved click here.