Calshot Sailing Club Open Day
by Sarah Curtis 21 Jun 2007 09:05 BST
17 June 2007
Calshot Sailing Club welcomes local MP Dr Julian Lewis (New Forest East), Paul Woods (Vice Chair of New Forest District Council) and Edward Holtham (Chair of Fawley Parish Council) on its open day © Sarah Curtis
Local MP and Councillors join in the sailing experience at Calshot Sailing Club open day
On Saturday 17 June Calshot Sailing Club held its annual open day, at which non members visited the club, where they met the members, looked at the variety of boats and above all have the opportunity to go out on the water with one of the Club’s experienced helmsmen.
Over ninety visitors took advantage of the ideal weather to look round the Club facilities and to meet the members. Over thirty members had come along to ensure that the open Day ran smoothly and safely.
Many of the visitors decided to run the risk of getting wet by going out with one of the club members in their own boat. The conditions were close to ideal with enough wind to ensure an exhilarating sail without making it unsafe. One visitor even said “I have had a brilliant day, its well organised and my whole family have received a warm, friendly welcome to the club”.
In spite of the good sailing conditions Calshot Sailing Club took no chances with the safety of their guests. Buoyancy aids were provided for all those who ventured out on the water and three safety boats were on the water at all times, all driven by members who were RYA qualified powerboat drivers. Luckily no one capsized, but for those that got a little wet getting in and out of boats, towels were provided to dry off.
All this exercise and fresh air stimulated the visitor’s appetites so the next stop was the galley where burgers and hot dogs were being cooked on the club BBQ and for those with a sweeter tooth there was a choice of home made cakes and other snacks.
Calshot Sailing Club was very pleased to welcome local MP Dr Julian Lewis (New Forest East), Paul Woods (Vice Chair of New Forest District Council) and Edward Holtham (Chair of Fawley Parish Council). They were all very interested in Calshot Sailing Club’s range of activities which includes:
- For the experienced competitive sailor a racing programme for ten months of the year.
- For the younger sailor a programme to develop those with basic sailing skills.
- Promotion of sailing to the local community, offering a friendly and helpful introduction for those who are new to the sport.
Local MP Dr Julian Lewis commented “Calshot Sailing Club is a marvellous facility for the area, offering opportunities for all ages. The club prides itself on its family welcome, its opportunities for racing and junior development. I’m very impressed and I’m looking forward to a ay out on the water with Calshot Sailing Club in the near future!”
Anyone interested in learning more about Calshot Sailing Club can visit the club website at or visit us in person at Calshot foreshore on Saturday or Sunday.