SA Sailing recently hosted an introduction to sailing session at the Inanda Dam for a group of first-timers ranging in age from nine to 24. The participants are not new to the water and are part of seven-time Dusi champion Martin Dreyer’s Change a Life Programme, where they have been learning canoeing.
While Laser Pico boats are a different prospect, the group relished the opportunity to try their hand at manoeuvring the larger craft.
SA Sailing instructor, Bart Fokkens, said, “We took this group as they were already water aware so that we could get stuck into sailing instruction straight away and not hassle too much about water awareness. Initially we had an instructor on board, but then sent them off on their own under our supervision. They were all really chuffed with this new opportunity to get involved with a new water sport which they can see happening from the other side of the dam.”
After having been given a taste of what sailing is all about, the plan is now to hold monthly sessions with the same group and also introduce more children to sailing every month.
“This is all part of SAS KZN’s Promotion and Transformation of Sailing programme, which is supported by the Department of Sports and Recreation KZN,” added SA Sailing chairman, Peter Hall.
“Ultimately our aim is to take sailing to areas and communities which may not have had the opportunity to experience what a great sport it is. Who knows, we may just discover the next Asenathi Jim among this group. Asenathi is one of our great role models in SA Sailing. Having come from a township in the Eastern Cape, he is now bidding to compete at his second Olympic Games,” added Hall.
For more information on SAS KZN’s development initiatives or to get involved, contact project coordinator, Ricky Robinson, at rickyr@sailing.org.za.
