In a new
Gulf Harbour Yacht Club initiative, GHYC plans to launch a Youth Keelboat Programme that may see a
number of new young members, both male and female using and
representing the club.
GHYC
has recently been granted the use of an International 25’ Farr One
Design Keelboat (another may follow) and a RIB coach boat to trial a
Youth Training/Racing Programme. A sub-committee has been assembled
to oversee the formation of the programme, to produce the required
documents, to ensure its safety, then to attract the participants.
The
above portion of the preparation is almost complete and meetings with
sailors and schools are arranged. Chris Biggs and John Weston will
soon go “on tour” to find young sailors for the programme.
What’s
the cost and what are the benefits, do I hear you asking? Well so far
there’s been no cost. Costs will mainly come from advertising, boat
maintenance and storage, sail replacement a coach and coach boat fuel
but this will be taken care of by Yacht Racing Unlimited Ltd for the
first year or until a sponsor is found. The sailors will pay a
minimal annual fee for the season and it is envisaged that with
proper marketing, some support from the local marine community a
sponsor may be attracted.
Benefits: After introductory sailing weekends in late November and sailing in
early December this year, the “Programme Proper” can begin in
February 2013. It’ll run all season and be incorporated into the
GHYC race schedule with the intent that it eventually increases the
number of young people at the club, the number of yachts sailing, the
number of regattas at the club and will increase general sailing
activity. Cruising races will become an integral part of the Youth
Keelboat Programme too.
Another
very real benefit to the club is the way the members may embrace this
programme and its young sailors. They may follow their progress both
at the GHYC events and other Youth events in which they compete. The
Youth Programme will bring a new dimension to any GHYC social events
and Prize Giving and it will be something in which we can all be
proud. Members please “talk up” this programme and be a part of
its growth.
To
become involved or sample a free trial weekend, (for sailors 14 yrs
and over) please email admin@ghyc.co.nz
for more details and an application form, or call the club.