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The Havelet Regatta returns this Sunday 1 September for a full day of activities, competitions, and performances along the South Esplanade and Havelet Bay.
After the success of last years' inaugural event, organisers Odette and Barrie Duerden say they are determined to make the event even more accessible to the community by taking on new initiatives informed by local inclusivity experts.
The event will provide 10 additional accessible parking spaces along Les Echelons and next to the South Slipway, an accessible toilet, and a specialised wheelchair from Pembroke, which will be manned by members of St Jacques' Vikings to assist access to the beach throughout the day.
A bespoke viewing platform has been made to suit attendees with disabilities, including older individuals and wheelchair users. The raised platform will overlook the beach and has been constructed with the insight of accessibility campaigner Aindre Reece-Sheerin.
The event will also feature a quiet zone for those who may want a peaceful space to relax. The zone will include chairs, and various sensory and table-top activities. A similar area can be found on the beach, with chairs and tables and an assortment of tactile objects such as shells, seaweed, and pebbles.
St John's Ambulance will be on site throughout the day to provide first aid cover.
Pictured: Barrie and Odette Duerden.
The Regatta is free for all attendees thanks to various sponsors and volunteers, who will be raising funds for The Guernsey Cheshire Home. The charity, which relies entirely on fund-raising and donations, provides care and opportunity for people with serious physical disabilities, and have praised the Havelet Regatta as one of the most inclusive events in Guernsey's calendar.
Kicking off at 11:00 on Sunday, the programme is packed with family-friendly activities on land, sand, and sea. Organisers are keen to make the event a highlight of the calendar before pupils return to school next week and are accommodating all ages with a varied timetable.
Stand-out features include a have-a-go-row with Guernsey Rowing Club, and RNLI display and demonstration, a climbing wall, and a collaborative sand art project led by local artist Bridget Spinney. Sailing, swimming and running races are scheduled throughout the day.
The Office Chair Racing, equally popular for both competitors and spectators, returns this year as the only paid activity costing £10 to enter as a team of four. Competitors are encouraged to register in advance, or can sign-up on the day.
A craft zone and fete area will offer activities for children to enjoy and include blended games, which are designed to be enjoyed by non-disabled and disabled families and friends together.
There will be a variety of food and drink on offer from local vendors.
Music will be provided in the afternoon by GU10 and the Button Pushers. The day will close with and awards ceremony to celebrate competitors and contributors, followed by a performance from Buffalo Huddleston.
A full programme can be found at haveletregatta.gg
Pictured top: The view from Havelet Bay.
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