Future of Sailing Clubs...

It's not about entitlement, but if UK plc wants to encourage an active lifestyle, for general public health and/or pathways to medals reasons then the gov't is handing out our taxes to NGO's such as RYA, FA, RFU, UK Athletics, Cycling, and others (incl dance for all I know). Given that there is a pot of money there then we as a sailing community should ensure it is spent in support and furtherance of our sport.

That's a cynical view James.Whilst it is fair to say that the majority are likely to be middle class (whatever that means) with a reasonable disposable income, I spend less on sailing than someone of whom I know spends on just watching football.

Also, there are clubs around - one near here for starters - which make the effort to show 'disadvantaged' kids what dinghy sailing is about. That takes cold, hard cash to provide equipment to appease the 'Elf n Safety brigade with appropriate kit - not loaned or hand-me-downs, in addition to the small army of volunteers who give of their time. No doubt sailing is not unique in this respect, but any incoming grant cash is not only going to support those who arguably don't need it.

The point, surely, is that a (perhaps tiny) percentage might decide they want more and put some effort in to achieving it, whether by working hard at a job to earn money, or academically to have the freedom of choice later. Entry costs are not necessarily high - I think a large number of non-owners of two-person boats have little or no financial input. And, as I think you have said, an old L@ser can be bought for (almost) pennies.

Originally posted by turnturtle And this is going to seem even more cynical....

Edited by transient - 27 Feb 17 at 4:52pm

@Eisvogel