HUNDREDS made a splash as they tried out sailing, windsurfing, kayaking and – for the first time – stand-up paddleboarding (SUP) at Draycote Water Sailing Club’s annual Open Day.
Despite light winds, more than 200 people of all ages took to the water to dip their toes in to a new hobby.
Families with young children went out in sailing dinghies, with many taking the chance to helm the boat under the watchful eye of an experienced sailor.
More than 35 club members gave up their time and were on hand to tell visitors about sailing, help them with the appropriate gear and take them out on the water.
Club manager Dave Rowe said: “SUP is a great addition to what the club can offer, particularly for low wind days when sailing or windsurfing may be less interesting.”
Commodore Jeremy Atkins added: “Although numbers were down on last year’s record, those who came showed a keen interest in the different types of water sport.”
The Open Day was part of the Royal Yachting Association’s nationwide Push the Boat Out initiative to get sailing clubs and centres across the country to invite local people to have a go at sailing and windsurfing.
