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Sir Peter Blake had a vision that every child in New Zealand gets a chance to try sailing and more than 3500 are expected to get that opportunity this summer through the Volvo Sailing... Have a Go! programme.
Last year a record 3730 children took part in the programme, which started in 2006, and there's an expectation a similar number will try sailing when it kicks off for the summer in Motueka tomorrow.
The three distinct Volvo Sailing... Have a Go! trailers will cover the entire country, providing children with a fun and safe introduction to sailing, the marine environment and their local sailing club. Around 95 percent express an interest in continuing to sail and contact details for these children are passed on to their local yacht clubs to follow up and invite them and their families back for open days and learn to sail courses.
"I'm really looking forward to getting out with kids, some of them who have never been more than 30m from shore or been in a boat and seeing how they progress from nervous individuals to showing complete confidence," Volvo Sailing... Have a Go! northern region instructor Justin Hurst said. "I'm also looking forward to getting around Northland. I have a stunningly beautiful office to work in."
All of the equipment needed for a day's sailing fit into each custom-built trailer, including six Optimists, one Weta, two Topper Taz and one RIB, as well wetsuits and lifejackets. It's open to children aged 8-12 and no prior sailing experience is required - all clothing and equipment is provided.
Simon McVeagh is back for a third season and will be travelling around the South Island and enjoys the notoriety the Volvo Sailing... Have a Go! trailer provides.
"People are always curious and excited when the trailer rolls into town," he said. "They always have questions wherever you go. I feel a bit like the Pied Piper with 12 kids following in behind."
The season will break for the Christmas school holidays but will go through until May when the St Johns Rotary will sponsor a series of sessions for up to 20 lower decile Auckland schools.
A big thanks to the yacht clubs and volunteers who have supported the Volvo Sailing…Have a Go! programme this year, and to Volvo, Zhik NZ and the Lion Foundation for their generous support which enables the programme to operate.
Anyone keen for the Volvo Sailing... Have a Go! trailer to visit their club or school should contact Danika at danika@yachtingnz.org.nz or on (09) 361 4028.
