There is no doubt that youth involvement is key to the future of sailing.
So it is wise for clubs to devote attention to developing youth sailing leading, hopefully, to onward transition into adult boats and classes and cruiser racing.
It is encouraging to see from incoming club reports that youth sailing is getting a lot of attention on the South Coast.
From Glandore and Kinsale to Monkstown, Cove and Crosshaven, there are positives to be taken from the past season and developed next year.
Youth sailing is getting a lot of attention on the South Coast
Glandore Harbour Yacht Club has appointed Heather Mahmood as Assistant Manager of its Primary Schools' Programme, which is very popular in helping schoolchildren to get afloat.
At Kinsale Yacht Club, Junior Sailing Organiser, Conor Dillon says the future looks bright with new participants and ever-increasing fleet numbers as the young sailors become more skilled.
5o5 sailing in Cork Harbour
Monkstown Bay Sailing Club is planning an outreach programme to city schools next year.
Cove Sailing Club started an Optimist fleet and the Royal Cork at Crosshaven has a vibrant and enthusiastic group of young sailors, some of whom also race on cruisers.
Overall, as clubs prepare for annual meetings, the future of the sport is attracting more youth participation and that is welcome and essential.
More about youth sailing on the South Coast in my Podcast here.
