Are you looking for a new way to get outdoors and active or find something you can enjoy together with the family?
If the answer is yes, sailing clubs and centres across Kent are inviting you and your family to come and try sailing or windsurfing between May 13 and 21.
Whether you’re completely new to the sport or looking to get back on the water, Push the Boat Out is the perfect time to give it a go.
The nine-day nationwide event will see thousands of people taking part in the sport with open days or taster sessions at sailing clubs and centres across the country.
Clubs and centres are inviting their local community to come down to have a go at sailing or windsurfing, see what the venue has to offer and get involved. Who knows, you might just get hooked.
Sailing can be as physical or as relaxing as you want to make it, you can sail with others or on your own, do it competitively or potter about and just enjoy the gentle escape of being outside in the elements.
Amongst over 370 clubs and centres taking part across the UK are 16 in Kent:
Broadstairs Sailing Club
Dover Sea Sports
Hythe & Saltwood Sailing Club
Tankerton Bay Sailing Club
Herne Bay Sailing Club
Hampton Pier Yacht Club
Margate Yacht Club
Gravesend Sailing Club
Cinque Ports Sailing Club
Bewl Sailing Association
Medway Yacht Club
Allhallows Yacht Club
Varne Watersports Club
Tonbridge Town Sailing Club
Whitstable Yacht Club
Conningbrook Lakes Sailing
Most of the venues will provide refreshments ranging from the club bar through lunches to afternoon teas and barbecues. Many of the events are free; a few have a minimal charge.
“During the two weekends and five weekdays, more sailing clubs and centres than ever before will be showcasing what the sport has to offer, from the freedom of being on the water to the social buzz, the thrill of racing and the fact that there really is something for everyone” explains Alistair Dickson, RYA Director of Sport Development.
“Sailing is such an accessible sport and many people aren’t aware of the opportunities available close to them or how affordable the sport can be, even for the whole family. Push the Boat Out is all about making that connection and we’re delighted to have so many venues taking part this year”.
Over 90,000 people have experienced sailing at Push the Boat Out events since 2013 with hundreds becoming members of sailing clubs and signing up for courses.
Saskia Clark, Rio 2016 Gold medallist said: “I got into sailing through my local sailing club so it’s fantastic to see so many people given the opportunity to discover what the sport’s all about right on their doorstep. If you want to inspire your non-sailing friends and family to giving sailing and windsurfing a go, make sure you put Push the Boat Out in the diary”.
You can find your nearest event here http://www.rya.org.uk/go/ptbo along with the activities, dates, times, locations, any costs, any booking requirements and what you need to take. All offer watersport taster sessions for those discovering the sport for the first time or for those returning to the sport.