RYA Suzuki Dinghy Show opens with a bang

British Sailing Team members join RYA officials for the opening of the RYA Suzuki Dinghy Show 2014 © Paul Wyeth

British Sailing Team sailors Dylan Fletcher and Paralympic bronze medallist Alexandra Rickham today joined RYA Race Officials Education Officer, Chris Watts and hundreds of eager visitors for a unique race start countdown to mark the opening of the RYA Suzuki Dinghy Show 2014.

As the giant clock ticked down the final 10 minutes before the doors were officially opened Chris talked visitors through the racing start procedure – the signals, the flags, the sounds. Dylan and Alexandra also added their top tips on pre- start preparations, what they would be doing at a given point in the race start countdown before the firing of confetti cannons and a blanket of red, white and blue glitter marked the opening of the show.

British Sailing Team sailor Dylan Fletcher commented of the opening: "It was really good fun, with a little bit of improvisation! It was great to see so many people ready and raring to get in to the show and see what's in store."

Running over the weekend of 1st-2nd March at Alexandra Palace, London, the show is an absolute must for any dinghy enthusiast looking to improve their skills or for first timers wanting to find out how to get started.

"We have hundreds of exhibitors filling the halls with everything from boats, kit, gear and books to the chance to chat with clubs and class associations all under one roof" explained show co-ordinator Charlotte Pearson.

There's plenty to see and hear all weekend on the Main Stage from sailing with your senses with double world blind sailing champion Vicki Sheen to top tips from the Boat Whisperer. While over at the interactive coaching sessions, some of the very best dinghy sailors and experts will be sharing their top tips and giving advice on a host of topics including rig tuning and racing rules, getting started and sailing fitness. Check out the full show schedule.

There are loads of fun activities for younger visitors too including the always popular Treasure Hunt, this year hosted by RYA Junior mascot 'Bob the Buoy', the Holt Blow Boat Challenge and the exciting RS sailing simulators, as well as a whole host of competitions to take part in with great prizes to be won, including your very own dinghy!

"Coming to the show is a bit of a tradition, we come most years. We pick up all the bits we've broken on the boats over the year and it is a great time to catch up with friends who we haven't seen over the winter months", commented show visitor Paula from Pevensey Bay. While Gary Fowler from Hunts Sailing Club commented: "We've come to the show to get some kit, look at the news boats, particularly the Devoti D-Zero, and just a general look around and get the kids interested in the sport."

So if you have a passion for dinghy sailing or if you're looking to get started and want to find out more, then head down to Alexandra Palace and enjoy the RYA Suzuki Dinghy Show 2014, in association with Yachts & Yachting.

Tickets can also be purchased on the door for £13.50 adult and children go free all weekend.

Find out more at www.dinghyshow.org.uk