Dudley Granddad urges Black Country to Push the Boat Out

A Dudley grandad insists “There’s a whole new world to gain!” as a month of free RYA Push The Boat Out ‘try sailing’ events launches across the Black Country this week.

Himley Hall Sailing Club’s John Priest was a complete beginner when he went along to the club's open day last year. Now, 12 months on, the 59-year-old has gained his RYA Start Sailing qualifications and thrown himself into club life, on and off the water.

He and his wife are also heading off on their first sailing holiday in Scotland, something they never imagined a year ago.

Six venues are hosting Push The Boat Out events around the Black Country in May, with Sandwell Valley SC welcoming anyone to ‘have a go’ on Saturday (12 May),  Greensforge SC, at Calf Heath, open their doors on Sunday (13 May), Dudley SC invite you to Push The Boat Out on both Thursday 17 and Sunday 27 May and Himley Hall SC open their doors on Saturday 9th June.

South Staffordshire SC, at Gailey, then hold their open day on Saturday 19 May, with Aldridge SC giving you the chance to ‘try sailing’ on the Sunday (20 May).

John believes you won’t regret it. He said:

I always thought sailing was something I could never afford to do, in fact, it is really affordable. It’s given me an additional hobby to enjoy with my wife, kids and grandkids. Every part of sailing gives a great sense of achievement. It’s as healthy, relaxing and social as you want it to be. Once you’ve been on that water, with just the birds singing, the sun shimmering and the water rippling, there’s no turning back! I’d seen the boats out on the lake at Himley Hall; it’s such a beautiful and peaceful place to be that my wife and I thought it would be great to find out a bit more about sailing. At the open day, we felt very welcome. There were men, women, boys and girls who were going to give it a try and it was nice to see such a wide range of ages all interested in sailing."

All kit and safety equipment is provided so bring a pair of old trainers you don’t mind getting wet and your sense of adventure and fun.

Find all the details for your nearest Push The Boat Out event at www.rya.org.uk/ptbo - refreshments will be available at all Push The Boat Out venues, with a host of shoreside activities and entertainment for the whole family to enjoy too.

Almost 400 venues across the UK are inviting people to Push The Boat Out in May.

Over 22,000 people regularly go along to their local sailing club every month across the Midlands, sailing small sailboats or windsurfing.

ENDS