Inspirational Global Yachtsperson Dee Caffari making an appearance at UKSA Summer Open Day
This year the United Kingdom Sailing Academy would like to encourage more people to learn about sailing and watersports, enjoying the thrills and excitement the sport has to offer. Sailing is accessible to everyone, young or old, male or female, able bodied or disabled and the UKSA has yachting and watersports courses to suit all ages and abilities.
On Saturday August 19th the UK Sailing Academy in Cowes is opening its doors and inviting anyone who has an interest in sailing or watersports to attend a fun and relaxed day of interactive workshops, and demonstrations showcasing the wide range of tuition available for all ages. In addition to the days’ activities, UKSA have invited graduate Dee Caffari, who recently became the first women in history to sail single handed round the world against prevailing winds and currents, along to talk about her experience of Ocean sailing and what it’s like commanding a 72ft yacht single handed the ‘wrong way’ round the world! Guests will also get the opportunity to look round the UKSA’s very own ex global challenge yacht to get a feel for the remarkable task Dee undertook. She will be talking to guests between 12 – 1pm, this is a one-off opportunity not to be missed.
The UKSA is well known as a professional sail training establishment but many people are unaware of the world class facilities on offer and range of leisure courses that can be completed during weekends or holidays. With a fleet of over 300 boats ranging from Laser Picos to 67ft Global Challenge yachts and the Academy’s shore based facilities including state of the art workshops, simulators and lecture facilities as well as an onsite dining room, fully licenced bar, swimming pool and gymnasium, there is something for every ability.
The open day on the August 19th will provide people with the opportunity to tour the Academy’s facilities, view the yachts and watersports equipment as well as meet the team of instructional staff who will be leading workshops throughout the day. Visitors, young and old will be invited to try their hand at splicing and rope work techniques, commanding Royal Navy frigates in the Academy’s Transas simulation suite and view sea survival techniques in action in the swimming pool.
Gemma Cooper, Senior Course Adviser, organising the open day comments, “The Island provides such a fantastic location for sailing and watersports. UKSA are working hard to raise awareness of the outstanding sailing and watersports facilities available at the Academy and want to provide opportunities for more people to experience the thrill of getting out on the water and making the most of what the Island has to offer.”
“Dee is a great example of where UKSA training can eventually take people. We are very excited that she will be returning to UKSA to talk about her global racing experiences to those attending the summer open day. She is an inspirational sailing figure and we are sure her experiences will encourage more people to get involved with sailing. Whether you aspire to be a global yacht racer or have never been out on the water before, UKSA will have something to suit from our vast range of courses. Come and check us out and be amazed at what’s on offer! “
You will be able to visit the Academy between 1000 and 1400 on Saturday August 19th, refreshments will be provided throughout the day. There is no need to book, simply turn up on the day and enjoy the fun. Phone 01983 203013 or go online at www.uksa.org for more details.