Wednesday June 19 saw RHSC Sailability launching four Sailability boats as we played host to Mariners of Bewl (MoB), who are based at Bewl Water on the Kent/Sussex border. MoB is an RYA Accredited Sailability Club.
We were delighted to welcome 11 sailors and crew from MoB and although faced with a dire forecast we decided that a decision to sail would be made on the day and encouraged everyone to attend. To help sailors get on and off their boats a gate has been fitted to the rail on the quay adjacent to the slipway.
A large commercial vessel was due on the tide, leaving only one option which was to sail up-river until the large vessel had berthed. After a light rain shower the sun shone and a breeze came up from the south west providing good conditions for a great sail.
Duncan Curtis, The Chairman of Mariners of Bewl said “Thanks go to all the team at RHSC Sailability who made our day on the Rother so wonderful. Our Mariners of Bewl got a real whiff of sea air, and a true taste of estuary sailing!
“The forecast was dreadful the day before, and the morning didn’t bode well either, but after we rigged our three boats, amazingly the sky cleared and we were all rewarded with a lovely sail up river. What apprehensions we had about the unfamiliar surroundings were dispelled as we shared launching, sailing, recovery, and then a delicious high tea with RHSC Sailability members and friends.
For us sailors from Bewl Reservoir, our day with RHSC Sailability was a real little adventure, and one we would love to be able to repeat. It goes without saying we would welcome visitors from Rye!”
Thank you for the invitation we shall start making plans!
Very many thanks to the volunteers who turned out on the day to make it all possible.
RHSC Sailability are proud to be able to help people with disabilities get out on the water and enjoy the fun and freedom of sailing. If you would like to get involved with RHSC Sailability either as a volunteer, to sail, or to help raise funds please email carolinewylson@btinternet.com or call 01797 223112. All sailors – please book in advance. Our next Try Sailing day is on Saturday July 6 from 12:30pm. We look forward to seeing you there.
Image Credits: Mariners of Bewl .