Free Sailing Kicks Off National Watersports Month In South Staffs & Black Country 

At least 8 clubs running 'have a go' activities this month

Blithfield SC and The Chase SC kicks off a magical month to get out on the water for the first time in South Staffs and the Black Country as they host their FREE annual Open Days on Bank Holiday Monday 5 May.

May is National Watersports Month and no fewer than eight Black Country and South Staffs sailing clubs are running free Open Days or discounted taster sessions to encourage people to give sailing, and in some cases windsurfing too, a try throughout the month.

All comers are invited for a free taste of sailing or windsurfing at Blithfield SC, near Rugeley, between 12pm-4pm and the Chase SC at Chasewater Country Park near Walsall, from 10.30am-4pm, this Bank Holiday Monday. 

All tasters will be run by experienced club members, and visitors will get to fully sample the social side of what the clubs can offer. 

Meanwhile, Blithfield will also be running further taster sessions on Saturday 17 May as part of national RYA Push the Boat Out weekend. Manor Park SC, at Kings Bromley, Greensforge SC near Gailey, Aldridge SC, Dudley Sail Training Centre, Walsall Outdoor Pursuits and Himley Hall SC are also hosting 'have a go’ Push The Boat Out activities that weekend. 

Booking is essential for some of the activities, and more events are being registered all the time.

Gareth Brookes, RYA Regional Development Officer for the Midlands, said: “All of our clubs and centres in and around the Black Country and South Staffs run accessible, affordable and inclusive activities for all, regardless of age, gender, background or experience. 

“These events are an incredible opportunity for local people in Black Country and South Staffs  to discover what sailing and sailing clubs are really like, and enjoy a fantastic, social outdoor sport where everyday life really does get left on the shore.”

Refreshments will be available and a warm welcome is guaranteed as BBQs and other social activities also take place to give newcomers a real sense of each club. 

All you need for any of the Open Days or ‘have a go’ sessions are a change of clothes, soft soled shoes and a towel and the clubs/centres will provide what else you need.

To find your nearest event, and to discover exactly what’s happening and when the fun starts, visit www.rya.org.uk/go/ptbo