The National Yacht Club has announced its success in securing a significant grant under the latest round of the Sports Capital and Equipment Programme (SCEP).

Minister Catherine Martin revealed on 9 May that over €26 million has been allocated to over 900 sports groups across Ireland, with the National Yacht Club receiving one of the largest individual grants.

Out of 3,210 applications submitted, the NYC’s proposal for two five-metre rescue RIBs and an Echo 90 keelboat to promote inclusivity in sailing stood out, resulting in a generous grant of €120,526.

This grant will significantly enhance the club’s capacity to support diverse participation in sailing activities, it says.

The successful application was the product of a dedicated team effort. Junior committee members led by Rebecca Johnston and the disability team led by Ruth Shanahan, collaborated closely with sailing manager Olivier Prouveur, who skilfully coordinated and submitted the comprehensive application.

From here, the club must secure the remaining 20% of the funds required to purchase and equip the new rescue RIBs and Echo 90 sailboat which is specifically designed and built to accommodate sailors of all abilities.

The Echo 90 — which will come equipped with both asymmetric and symmetric spinnakers, reduced mobility bucket seats with anchor points for wheelchairs, fully batten mainsail and mizzen, lazy jacks, boom sail bags and furling jib — will be at the centre of all NYC training programmes will also join the revived cruising section for day trips to the neighbouring marinas.

In effect, the Echo 90 will become the flagship of the National Yacht Club and its ethos of providing quality sailing programmes to people of all abilities.

The club is therefore inviting potential sponsors to seize this opportunity to demonstrate their commitment to corporate and social responsibility.

Sponsorship would not only support the club's inclusivity initiatives but also provide visibility for sponsors, with logos prominently displayed on the new grant-aided craft in the harbour. For further details, get in touch with sailing manager Olivier Prouveur at [email protected].