Burton Sailing Club may have celebrated their most successful year ever in 2013. But the Foremark Reservoir club is refusing to rest on its laurels as it bids to get even more local people out on the water in another record-breaking effort this year.
The local community, including schools, Sea Scouts, Cubs and Scout troops, plus many families and Loughborough University students, contributed to three times as many people learning to sail at Burton SC last year compared to 2012.
The club's success was thanks in part to the opening of its new training centre, as well as efforts to foster innovative and mutually beneficial relationships with local authorities and community groups to make sailing as accessible as possible for all.
Work has continued over the winter to help the club build on the impetus of its boom year, with Burton Sea Cadets and Pingle and William Allitt schools set to engage in the club's RYA OnBoard grassroots programme, while favourites such as Pink Sailing Ladies' Nights and its Youth Academy continue to flourish.
On Bank Holiday Monday 26 May, Burton SC is offering you and your family the chance to try sailing for FREE, as the club hosts an all-comers welcome Open Day.
And on 21 September, Burton will bid to get as many people out on the water as possible as part of 'Bart's Bash', a global attempt to set a new Guinness World Record for 'The Largest Sailing Event in the World'. This is organised by the Andrew Simpson Sailing Foundation in memory of the much-loved Olympic champion sailor, Andrew 'Bart' Simpson, who lost his life in a training accident last May.
If you already want to learn to sail this year, and get involved in a fantastic, social outdoor sport where everyday life really does get left on the shore, Burton's next adult (12 and over) RYA Start Sailing course starts on Saturday 31 April, with the first of three Youth courses (8 and over) starting from Monday 26 May.
Keith Pallett, Burton SC Training Principal, said: "2014 has even more to offer with a massive calendar of training and coaching, which means we have something happening on the water every evening of the week throughout the season, with only three afternoon sessions free! We're already looking forward to welcoming the new groups and individuals that come sailing with us, and having lots of fun with them.
"It's our aim for absolutely anyone to be able to learn to sail and regularly go sailing. We do this by creating low cost options, having boats people can use to practice, and creating an inclusive, welcoming atmosphere."
As well as club-based activities, Burton sailors ventured further afield last year too, with club-organised yachting trips in the Solent and English Channel to really give members something new to enjoy and get their teeth in to.
Keith added: "2013 was simply the best I can remember in many years. The effort and hard work of all those people who were responsible isn't forgotten and the club is reaping the benefits as it continues to go from strength to strength."
Burton SC is a recognised RYA Training Centre meaning it conforms to the highest standards of quality and safety. RYA Start Sailing introduces people to the basics and gives them the best first experience in the sport, while also providing opportunities for them to then stay involved and keep improving their skills at friendly, welcoming sailing clubs.
For full details of everything going on at Burton SC this year, and how you can get involved, visit www.burtonsailingclub.co.uk
![Burton Sailing Club bids to build on boom year]( "Burton Sailing Club bids to build on boom year")
