OLTON Mere Sailing Club in Solihull has welcomed a landmark study by the Institute of Education at University College London (UCL), which highlights the positive impact of the sport on the lives of young people who get on the water through the grassroots RYA OnBoard programme.
Run by the Royal Yachting Association, OnBoard introduces sailing and windsurfing to young people aged eight to 18 by connecting schools and youth groups with RYA clubs and training.
These then offer low cost sessions promoting equal access to the sport for youngsters from all social and economic backgrounds and encouraging character development.
The UCL report shows how OnBoard contributes to the development of life skills such as creativity, teamwork, determination, communication, independence and confidence.
It also identifies how sailing and windsurfing correlate with benefits from physical activity generally and how RYA OnBoard plays an important role in tackling social injustice, boosting self-confidence and opening up further opportunities.
Olton Mere SC chief instructor Andrew Yates said: “At Olton Mere we find that sailing is a new experience for most and confidence is gained in a very short time.
“As experience is gained, confidence increases and this helps develop wellbeing and team work. Most importantly it is a fun activity in the fresh air and good exercise.”
The club has Saturday afternoon social sailing supported by instructors and on Sunday mornings, structured coaching followed by racing.
Other venues offering RYA OnBoard in the region include Bartley Sailing Club, Midland Sailing Club, GT Adventure and Sutton Sailing Club.
Olton Mere Sailing Club is located just off the Warwick Road. Visit https://www.oltonmere.co.uk/
The full RYA OnBoard impact report can be read here: https://bit.ly/2EDeSCK
Video: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=qAHy3Hk2j7M&feature=youtu.be
