Hundreds of venues Push the Boat Out across the UK

Visitors to Midlands Sailing Club Push the Boat Out event on May 15 © RYA

This weekend (14-15 May) marked the start of RYA Push the Boat Out 2016 with almost 200 events taking place across the country.

From 14-22 May, clubs and centres are opening their doors and inviting their local communities to get out on the water at free or low cost 'have a go' sailing and windsurfing taster sessions for all.

In Scotland, Clyde Cruising Club held a successful event on 14 May that saw many locals able to get on the water for free.

Hugh McLean, from Clyde Cruising Club, said: "We had a super day at Bardowie. Sunshine all afternoon, with many folks visiting throughout the day, and John Nicolson MP came and sailed with us. There were about 100 kids and adults on the water sailing. Altogether, it was a great day."

Barrie Lyman, Commodore at Haversham Sailing Club, was delighted with the turnout at his club's open day.

He said: "If you're thinking about visiting a Push the Boat Out event, I would very strongly recommend you do. You'll find a very friendly welcome, experienced people to take you out on the water in boats that won't frighten anybody, and you'll make new friends as well."

RYA Club Support Advisor Jackie Bennetts said: "The first weekend of RYA Push the Boat Out 2016 has been a great success, thanks in part to some fantastic weather. We're looking forward to seeing even more people get out sailing over the next week.

"We've already had some great positive feedback from the clubs and centres who ran events and from people who went out on the water and had a go, which is fantastic."

RYA Push the Boat Out is all about giving people the opportunity to discover the sport at their local sailing venue and to find out just how easy it is to get involved.

If you didn't manage to Push the Boat Out this weekend, there are still over 200 events taking place across the UK until 22 May.

To find your nearest event, visit www.rya.org.uk/go/ptbo

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