Ten local youth development charities to take part in Cowes Small Ships Race this weekend
by Association of Sail Training Organisations 22 Sep 2022 17:18 BST
24 September 2022
Donald Searle and Pegasus at Cowes Small Ships Race 2021 © Max Mudie / ASTO
More than 230 young people from around the UK are set to take part in a youth charity's annual sailing race this weekend (Saturday 24th September).
The Cowes Small Ships Race is hosted by Gosport-based charity, ASTO (Association of Sail Training Organisations), with support from the Royal London Yacht Club and Royal Yacht Squadron.
Over the weekend, the fleet of more than 20 vessels from 10 different Sail Training organisations are expected to set sail from Cowes Yacht Haven and race round the cans in the Solent. The organisations taking part are all youth charities or organisations specialising in youth development.
Sail Training teaches young and disabled people about the importance of teamwork, communication, and other key skills that they can use later in life. Sail Training can also improve young people's mental health and wellbeing as it can help to boost levels of self-confidence, self-esteem, and resilience.
The Small Ships Race gives young people from different backgrounds the chance to meet and connect in a fun, friendly and competitive environment. The event, which is usually held over the first weekend of October, is taking place one week earlier this year.
Lucy Grodie, General Manager of ASTO, said: "I'm pleased that so many UK Sail Training vessels are returning to Cowes this weekend to compete in our annual Small Ships Race. Not only is it a great opportunity for the young people taking part, but it also allows our UK Sail Training members to celebrate a successful season.
She added: "The world is still feeling the impacts of the pandemic, but Sail Training is once again thriving and providing positive life-changing experiences for so many young and disabled people across the country."
Follow UK Sail Training on social media to see all the latest Small Ships Race updates and learn more about our work. @UKSailTraining.