Sidmouth sailing club held a Junior and Development session on Saturday morning with the aim of getting both juniors and inexperienced adults out on the water for instruction and training, writes Simon White.

Once again the weather somewhat thwarted these plans. The sea was flat calm with the lightest of a sea breeze that was not conducive for good sailing.

Nevertheless, with plenty of enthusiasm from all involved eleven boats managed to get out on the water under the watchful guidance and instruction of Principal Training Officer and Instructor Scott Tobin assisted by Instructor Alastair Watson.

The lack of wind gave opportunity for ‘Light wind sailing instruction’, where students were taught various techniques in maximising boat speed with very little breeze.

One such technique involved instruction on how to pump the sails which is a technique that, although taught, is not allowed to be used under the rules in any type of official racing.

Two support boats were out on the water crewed by power boat Instructor Andy Mitchell with crew Nigel Palmer and helm James Frances with crew Alex Hammond.

Everyone who participated thoroughly enjoyed the session as well as the lovely warm bank holiday sunshine. Hopefully there will be enough breeze for club racing on Wednesday night which can be viewed from the promenade.

New members are always welcome and anyone interested in sailing can pop in and speak with club members on either a Saturday afternoon or Wednesday evening when sailing takes place.

To promote the sport Sidmouth sailing club is also inviting the local community to participate in the National RYA Push the Boat Out event, which takes place on Saturday, May 19.

This event starts at 10am where there will be a host of activities taking place including ‘taster’ Rib sessions (adults only) and 30 minutes free sailing sessions with an experienced helm throughout the day. (from age 10 plus) You can book your place by emailing Ady Moreton at vicecommodore@sidmouthsailing.org.uk or visit the Sidmouth Sailing Club website at sidmouthsailing.org.uk/ptbo for more details.