Taster sessions get added Torch bonus 

Celebrations at Somerset Youth and Community Sailing Association

Somerset Youth & Community Sailing Association (SYCSA) held a series of successful Sail for Gold sessions during May and gave over 60 people a chance to try sailing.

The tasters were attended by local scout and cub groups as well as families and individuals. They all enjoyed the sessions and some are coming back for more lessons in June and July.  

One of the many comments came from a scout who enthused: “It was brilliant, can’t wait for my next chance to sail”.  

At the final taster, 17 local scouts were getting ready to sail when Pete Branson, an Olympic Torch Bearer, and SYCSA Chair, dropped in to surprise the group. They were delighted to have a chance to hold the Torch, which was used at Coxley on 22 May. It provoked lots of comments and questions, including: “It’s heavy”, “Is it made of gold?” and “Can I keep it?”  

After the Torch surprise, the group set sail for their taster session in perfect weather and buoyant mood. A great time was had by all.  

Afterwards Pete commented: “The scouts’ smiling faces made all of the effort worthwhile; these youngsters really got excited about holding the Torch and will remember this sailing session for a long time.  

“I will certainly remember that amazing experience of carrying the torch along its route through Somerset. The crowds were bigger than I expected, and they were so friendly and excited. My grandchildren watched me jog along in Coxley, we were all so proud to be part of the London 2012 Torch Relay, it truly was a once in a lifetime experience.”  

The ‘have a go’ sessions were part of the nationwide Sail for Gold initiative which aims to bring the games as close to home as possible for  everyone no matter where they live.  

For more information visit www.rya.org.uk/sailforgold