The Melton Mowbray ‘Try Sailing’ event, held at Frisby Water Park, Asfordby on the afternoon of Saturday 2nd April was a tremendous success. Entry was free, the car park was full, and there was a steady stream of visitors queuing to have a try at sailing.
The five boats; 2 Laser Stratos, 1 Laser Bahia, 1 Wayfarer and a GP 14 used for the ‘Try Sailing’ have just been purchased with a £10,000 ‘Sport England’ grant. They give the club a broader range of boats with which to teach students, offering both the traditional rear main and more modern centre main rig.
To mark the occasion a Stratos dinghy decorated with streamers and balloons was given an official launch. Bill Ridlington, the club President and Training School Principal, gave a short speech and Paul Gregory, Funding Officer, cut the ribbon while visitors and club members observed the celebrations.
As a result of the interest shown, more than ten people signed up for the Spring training course, which is now full. Ian Gamble, Chief Instructor, was busy most of the afternoon talking to people about the club’s training programme, and more people are now aware that there is an Autumn course.
The O’pen BIC Road Show was a great success, with lots of young (and some not so young) taking advantage of the opportunity to try the O’pen BIC dinghies. Thanks due to the O’pen BIC team for all their efforts in organising the ‘Un-Regatta’ and setting the Cadets some challenging exercises.
The galley, run by the social committee, was busy all afternoon. Drinks and cake were paid for by donations only.
Thanks to everyone involved in the planning, organising and work on the day for helping to make this event such a success. Raising awareness of the club in the local community and encouraging a greater interest in sailing.
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