RYA Dinghy & Watersports Show Q&A: With Stephen Wright, International Optimist Class Association UK

Optimist sailing © Richard Aspland

As the RYA Dinghy & Watersports Show fast approaches, we talk to some of the people that will be in Farnborough International with us to get a little insight of what you might expect.

This time we speak to Stephen Wright from the International Optimist Class Association - UK.

RYA: First things first, can we get a little introduction from you?

Stephen: Sure. Well, my name is Stephen and I have a son who is a keen Optimist sailor, and because of this I've recently joined the class association - IOCA(UK) - as Volunteer Coordinator.

RYA: Very nice. So, joining IOCA(UK) is a recent thing, does that mean getting in to sailing in general is also a recent thing?

Stephen: Sort of. We joined Tynemouth Sailing Club and bought our first dinghy, a 2000, about 18 months ago and the Optimist just last year. As a teenager, I'd crewed for my dad and elder brother but pretty much stopped sailing until I got the bug again on family holidays by the sea.

RYA: Ok, ok. I'm going to guess you haven't been to the show before?

Stephen: I haven't. This will be my first time, but my son and I are both keen to go.

RYA: So looking forward to the show then?

Stephen: Yes. It looks like there'll be a real buzz to the place with lots to see at the exhibition and some interesting talks on the programme. I quite like all the boat design and technical stuff, so will be quite happy wandering round the stands talking to people from the various classes. There's also plenty of activities on the programme for my son to join in with.

RYA: It's the first one to be held in Farnborough. Are you excited? What are you expecting?

Stephen: I guess Farnborough is world famous for their air show, so I bet they'll put on a great dinghy and watersports show as well. Hold on to your hat!

RYA: What can we expect from IOCA(UK) at the show?

Stephen: We're hoping to show children and their parents all that's great about Optimist sailing in the UK and why it's the most popular junior sailing dinghy in the world. Things like, the design of the boat and what makes it so good for learning and racing for kids in the 8-15yr age range. We'll also have information on the regional training that goes on around the UK, and the excellent racing programme, with five Championship weekends and a National's week in Largs this year. The events are excellent fun, and always include a Regatta Fleet for our less experienced racers.

RYA: Sounds exciting. Can you tell us a bit about your stand? What can we look forward to?

Stephen: We'll have an Optimist dinghy on display and there will be current Oppie sailors and their families on the stand to chat to. We're planning a daily competition, fun games and spot prizes. We've also got two very special guests coming to meet the kids and parents. On Saturday afternoon at 3pm we have Ali Young, who represented Team GB in the ILCA 6 (Laser Radial) in Tokyo 2020, and on the Sunday at 12:30pm, James Peters is joining us - he's a 49er sailor in the British Sailing Team. Both Ali and James were keen Optimist sailors growing up and will give a great perspective on the boat and great opportunities that come from sailing Optimists as a child.

RYA: That all sounds great. To finish off, we have been asking for any advice for first timers to the show - but as a first timer yourself, what advice are you giving yourself?

Stephen: Have fun! I guess the more you put into these events the more you get out. I'd encourage everyone to come along, say hello and talk about all things Oppie sailing! You'll be very welcome at the IOCA(UK) stand.

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