Hari’s story: Draycote Water Sailing Club  

From open days to club racing, Draycote Water sailing club offers a pathway for children and young people to thrive on the water

Looking to inspire the next generation? We caught up with Draycote Water Sailing Club, our 2024 RYA Young Person’s and Club of the Year winner, to hear more about their pathway which takes aspiring sailors from open days, beginners’ courses and weekly fun sessions all the way through to competing nationally and internationally. 

Club Manager Dave Rowe says the club is immensely proud of all its young sailors and as Youth & Junior Fleet Captain Jon Hughes sums up, it is hugely rewarding to see those who started out as small children in a crash helmet and club Topper now “beating the grown-ups on a level playing field in club racing and achieving amazing results”. 

The club is also passionate about the life skills its young members gain through getting afloat. “The sport has so much to offer for personal growth,” says Commodore Will Whittaker. “The confidence it brings to know you’re in control of a boat and you’re the master of your own destiny is great for the development of any child.” 

Would your club like to find out more about how to encourage children and young people into the sport? Take a look at our OnBoard hub. 

Do you know a club that goes the extra mile to provide an outstanding, inclusive and sustainable environment for its members and local community? Nominations are now open for the 2025 RYA Awards.