Inspirational Day for RYA NI Gold Members
by Tom Jobling 17 Jul 2018 18:06 BST
15 July 2018
Sir Robin Knox-Johnston & Jackie Patton © Emma Blee
As a part of the huge Foyle Maritime Festival, which centres around the Clipper fleet currently docked on the River Foyle, the RYA in Northern Ireland took the opportunity to host a reception for their 'Gold' membership on Sunday 15th July.
It was indeed a special event for the many Gold Members who made the journey to the North West. They met with, and listened to, legendary sailor Sir Robin Knox-Johnston as he recalled his experiences of the various Clipper Round the World Yacht Races. Sir Robin who is the founder and Chairman of the Clipper Race, had travelled from Les Sables d'Olonne, France, where he was celebrating the 50th anniversary of when he began the epic voyage that would see him become the first person to sail solo and non-stop around the globe.
He also told a packed room of gold members that Derry-Londonderry has become the fleet's favourite port and he attributes this to the friendly atmosphere and enthusiasm of the people in Northern Ireland.
RYA NI's Chief Operating Officer Richard Honeyford said: "It was fantastic to see so many of our Gold Members attend this special event at the Foyle Maritime Festival. I'm sure you will agree that this has been a special day of celebration as we listened to the inspirational Sir Robin talk about his experiences of the Clipper Round the World Yacht Race." He continued; "The festival has also been a fantastic opportunity for our staff and Board to meet the public, explain the many benefits of sailing and boating and of course, help direct them to a club or centre near them in order to take part in this wonderful activity."