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Open Day a Success

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Published 10:27 on 4 May 2022

I would describe Open Day as, one of the most rewarding days in the clubs calendar. It is when members come together en masse to present the club to those who think sailing might be for them. The community spirit of self-help clubs comes to life, with everyone chipping in and making it happen. This year we were lucky with the weather, the sun shone, and the wind blew, what more could you ask for.

A record number of visitors signed up for trips around the bay, followed by visits to the membership enquiry desk. A big benefit the club has to offer is its own boats, that members can use and training programmes for all abilities. These minimise the initial investment and make the decision to join the club much simpler, hence we always have a busy membership desk. A warm welcome and a helpful attitude from members goes a long way to overcome the fears of inexperience and the worry of would they fit in and be accepted.

We received the following letter from a lady who had an unexpected encounter with UTSC, I think it says a lot about the ethos of the club and what it has to offer.

Hi

I was taking a walk along the river on Sunday and stopped to chat to some friends near your boathouse. After a few minutes we were 'accosted' by one of your volunteers and offered the opportunity to go for a sail. Not what I was expecting when I left the house but a very welcome interlude to my walk! I didn't catch his name but he was so helpful, escorted me upstairs to meet the lovely ladies on reception who then passed me over to another lovely lady who helped me get a life jacket and then kindly waited with me while I waited for my skipper - Ollie. I then had a lovely time out on the water

I wanted to write to say a massive thank you to everyone who helped me on Sunday. It was such a perfect experience of trying a new sport and while I had no time to be nervous if I had been I couldn't have asked for any better a service! Everyone was so welcoming and kind and I can see why your open days are so good at recruiting new members.

I loved the sailing and defo ready to have a go myself! If that works out I couldn't think of a more friendly place to join! Either way please pass on my thanks to all involved, a great job all round!

Kindest regards

Michaela

The story of a successful day continues, Tea By The Thames raised £409 for the charity Sail4Cancer. It seems as though there are always people willing to sacrifice their bodies for a good cause, however if you go sailing, youll soon burn off those calories. This year, the shaded area that the new balcony has created, seemed like a natural place from which to serve the tea and cake. It probably caught the attention of passers-by and the large slices of cake were too irresistible to ignore.

The images captured by Phil with his Nikon show the enjoyment that the visitors of all ages were having.

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Last updated 23:01 on 16 February 2024

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