Get ready to Push the Boat Out - One week to go
by Susie NationGrainger, RYA 24 Apr 2018 16:00 BST
May 2018
RYA Push The Boat Out © Emily Whiting
The countdown is ON with just a week to go until the start of May when you and your family can get out on the water and try sailing and windsurfing.
Throughout the whole Month, there are nearly 400 sailing venues across the UK opening their doors and running free or low cost Push the Boat Out 'have a go' taster sessions. With sailing being one of the most inclusive sports around, there are plenty of venues able to cater for people across the spectrum of disabilities and activities for people of all ages.
If you're looking for something completely different, whether it's a new way to get fit outdoors, an adrenalin rush, an escape from everyday life, or simply a sociable fun activity you can enjoy with your friends and family, pop down to your nearest Push the Boat Out event and give it a go.
"Every event is different but there is something for everyone" explains RYA Club Support Advisor Jackie Bennetts who manages the event. "So many people still don't realise that you can go sailing or windsurfing on your doorstep and that you don't need to own a boat or a board as clubs and centres often have ones you can borrow or hire.
"Once you've learned the ropes, you can sail on your own or with your partner, friends or children in dinghies or bigger boats, at inland locations or at the coast. Nothing beats catching up with friends by the water on warm summer evenings" she concludes.
Don't worry about kit, packing a lunch or anything else for Push the Boat Out; every event will provide all the equipment you need and many events will have refreshments available. You may want to take a change of clothes and spare shoes - just in case you get splashed.
Research commissioned by the RYA, shows that a quarter of people have never tried an outdoor pursuit, yet two in four want to be more active and nearly a third want to get more fresh air*.
Find your nearest Push the Boat Out event here
For full details of exactly what is on and when at each participating sailing club and centre, visit www.rya.org.uk/PTBO