Issue date
Yachting New Zealand are now taking bookings for next summer’s Volvo Sailing…Have a Go! following on from the biggest season since the programme's inception.
Volvo Sailing… Have A Go! is offered to schools throughout the country, designed to give primary and intermediate school students the opportunity to try sailing in a safe and well-managed environment.
The programme has been running for 14 years, having been set up by the Sir Peter Blake Trust with the aim of every Kiwi kid having the opportunity to try sailing. Last summer nearly 4000 children aged 8-12 took part, which was a record.
“The main focus is having fun." Volvo Sailing... Have A Go! co-ordinator Danika Mowlem said. "We teach them the basics, let them sail around, capsize, go swimming and have water fights. It’s a really positive experience about sailing. Ideally, they might think it’s a sport they might want to get into.
“The kids love it, especially capsizing, and 95 percent say they want to sail again.”
Yachting New Zealand have three trailers that travel the country during terms 4 and 1, complete with six Optimists, one Weta (trimaran), two Topper Taz and a RIB. They also provide all the gear like wetsuits and lifejackets.
All schools need to do is show up to their local sailing club and go sailing.
See here for more information or or contact Danika on (09) 361 4018 or danika@yachtingnz.org.nz if you would like the Volvo Sailing…Have a Go! programme to visit your school or club this season.
