RYA to launch new Sail For Gold programme at Dinghy Show

by Emma Slater on 23 Feb 2011
RYA Volvo Dinghy Show - On Saturday 5 March the RYA will be launching its new Sail for Gold programme which aims to bring the excitement of the 2012 Olympic and Paralympic games to sailing clubs and training centres across the country in the lead up to and during the games.

With the 2012 Olympic and Paralympic Games less than 18 months away preparations within the Olympic classes squad are well and truly in full swing and the RYA has been looking at ways to inspire new and existing sailors to get out on the water, make clubs the focal point for members to join in the spirit of the Olympics, and maximise support for the British Sailing Team.

Stacey Clark, RYA Deputy Chairman explains: 'Sail for Gold is a comprehensive programme of activities available to all RYA affiliated organisations aimed at bringing the Olympics to you. It includes a celebration of the long and successful heritage of the British Sailing Team, events to get existing and new members on the water, and activities to inspire the local community. The programme will be supported by a website that will provide up to the minute Team GBR news, event coverage, and results from regattas this summer through to the Olympic and Paralympic events.'

Stacey will be joined on the Volvo Main Stage (13.45) by double gold Olympic medallist Sarah Gosling (nee Webb) to official launch the programme. Hear about what the plans are for 2011 and 2012, how you can get involved as a Sail for Gold Activator, and details of the independent nation-wide initiative, the Gold Challenge supported by Sport England, the British Olympic Association and UK Sport.

The Sail for Gold programme is hoping to be granted the prestigious London 2012 Inspire mark, the badge of the London 2012 Inspire programme which recognises innovative and exceptional projects that are directly inspired by the London 2012 Olympic and Paralympic Games.

The RYA Volvo Dinghy Show, in association with Yachts & Yachting and Suzuki takes place at Alexandra Palace, London over the weekend of 5-6 March.

For more information: click here