Next generation of sailors will benefit from sponsorship deal

Friday 10 May 2024

The next generation of sailors will be supported after a new sponsorship deal was struck.

RAW Capital Partners has been named as the sponsors of the Guernsey Junior Sailing programme, in partnership with the Guernsey Yacht Club.

Mike Chapple, Rear Commodore Juniors at The Guernsey Yacht Club, said: "It enables the Guernsey Yacht Club to nurture entry-level participation in the Junior section of the club."

Targeting those aged five to 12, with some extension to 12 to 14-year-olds, the initiative focuses on introducing youngsters to the joys of sailing on the model yacht pond using single-handed Oppie class boats.

Under the banner of the Guernsey Yacht Club Pirates, children will have the opportunity to learn the basics of sailing in a safe and enjoyable environment, combining pond sessions with dedicated classroom instruction.

Led by a Royal Yachting Association-qualified senior instructor, supported by a team of instructors and assistants, the programme runs from May to July and September to October, coinciding with school terms.

The funds raised through RAW Capital Partners' sponsorship will allow the club to maintain current subscription fees, provide free or reduced entry for economically disadvantaged families, recruit additional assistant instructors for personalised instruction, and acquire essential equipment such as sails for the club's FEVA Class dinghies.

The FEVA Class dinghy, a two-person high-performance sailing vessel, offers aspiring young sailors the ideal platform to hone their skills and transition into competitive racing if desired.

Ben Nichols, Interim Managing Director at RAW Capital Partners, commented: "RAW Capital Partners is proud to support the Guernsey Junior Sailing programme and we look forward to witnessing the growth and success of young sailors as they embark on their sailing journey."