An amazing and successful weekend for Rye Harbour Sailing Club (RHSC), as we took part in the RYA National Push The Boat Out (PTBO) event. The weather was overcast with occasional showers which did nothing to deter those who had booked to have a go at sailing for free on Saturday and Sunday May 21-23.
Over the two days 40 dinghy and 16 cruiser taster sailors took part. The SSW wind on Saturday made for an exciting sail in the river for the dinghies – there was too much of a sea running to venture out into Rye Bay. For the cruisers taking taster sailors out, Sunday saw moderating winds which made for a leisurely sail for the yachts in the Bay.
There were plenty of activities to keep people interested whilst waiting their turn to sail. Julian Anderson treated us to an excellent demonstration on how to splice Dyneema rope and Ian Foster held our attention with a demonstration on how to tie knots. There was a volunteer from the RNLI on hand to answer questions on sea safety.
The galley was kept busy supplying everyone with bacon baps, hot drinks and cakes, some donated by members as well as the Sugartown Bakery. Active Sussex Community Games supported RHSC PTBO by helping towards funding the event.
After mooring up at Fox Marine, the cruiser skippers, crews and passengers made their way to the club house to join everyone for the BBQ which went ahead regardless of the weather.
Victoria, one of a family of six said of her experience “I had no idea that so much fun could be had sailing we have all had an amazing time”, whilst others were heard to remark ”It’s so welcoming and friendly”. A group of five turning up at the last minute to have a sail were not disappointed. A boat was relaunched, the rescue boat alerted to remain on standby and all of them had a chance to have a go at sailing. The youngest of five years was thrilled to be included in the sail and we are delighted in that all of this group have signed up to join the club.
Commodore of RHSC, Caroline Wylson, said “I am proud that RHSC were able to Push the Boat Out again this year. It’s been a very successful event and we hope that we have attracted a new generation to join us and have fun learning to sail. It was great to see so many children, teenagers and adults all enjoying themselves and enthusing about sailing”
RHSC also took the opportunity of launching their Fund Raising Project. Over the last five years the number of members using the club has increased and as such the shower and toilet facilities need to be improved. We are building a new shower block with up to date facilities so that we will be able to ensure that the club is a sports venue accessible to all. The club has already been awarded funding from Sport England Inspired Facilities Fund as well as a grant from the Little Cheyne Court Wind Farm. We are looking to local funding and local businesses to support our project as well as putting on different fund raising events throughout the year.
Ends
For more information contact:
Caroline Wylson T 01797 223112 M 07808 156352
1 Harbour Barn
Winchelsea Beach, East Sussex TN36 4LR
[Note from Ed. Our intrepid reporter Heidi Foster was one of those attending the event and you can read about her experience here]
Photos: Rye Harbour Sailing Club