Try Sailing This May in Scotland

The RYA’s Push the Boat Out (PTBO) campaign is set to return this May, with more than 350 venues across the UK, 44 of which are in Scotland, offering free or low cost, sailing and windsurfing taster sessions. Scotland has embraced the Try Sailing Throughout May Initiative of Push The Boat Out with as clubs come together to celebrate their activity with the local communities and to share their love of getting afloat. Aiming to inspire more people to take up sailing and windsurfing, PTBO open days provide visitors with an opportunity to get out on-the-water and to find out more about their local club or training centre. Sandy Vito went along to Castle Semple Sailing Club last year after recalling his first experiences of sailing were in Plockton in his youth. Now he enjoys sailing at the club regularly and now is even starting to race. “I definitely recommend giving sailing a try at one of the Push The Boat Out Events. If you haven’t been out in a dinghy before, you can experience it and decide for yourself. It reminded me that I had enjoyed once before and that’s why it’s good to try.” RYA Scotland’s Development Manager, Liza Linton commented “With events taking place throughout the month of May, we know that the Scottish public has a great opportunity to undertake safe and enjoyable sailing and windsurfing sessions. With a current global emphasis on the environment what better way to help to showcase our beautiful offerings than through on the water activities with the help of our skilled instructors & volunteers. Whether you’re a complete novice or a seasoned sailor looking to find out what is available in your local area and get involved this May." No experience or kit necessary PTBO open days are aimed at complete novices, as well as more experienced sailors, everyone is welcome. All kit and safety equipment will be provided, visitors just need to bring a pair of old trainers they don't mind getting wet, and a sense of fun and adventure. Last year, more than 39,000 people across the UK attended a PTBO open day, inspiring thousands of new sailors to join their local club. Find out more about the Push the Boat Out campaign and events near you at www.rya.org.uk/ptbo.