VIP visitor for Rutland Sailing Club - Sara Sutcliffe, CEO of RYA

Sara Sutcliffe MBE, CEO of the RYA, meets Nick Neve, Commodore of Rutland SC © RYA Midlands

Rutland Sailing Club received a VIP visitor when Sara Sutcliffe MBE, Chief Executive Officer of the Royal Yachting Association, met members and staff and was given a tour of the club by Commodore Nick Neve.

RSC is an RYA Recognised Training Centre and also British Youth Sailing accredited for its outstanding commitment to developing and inspiring the next generation of racing sailors.

The visit by Sara enabled the club to share its recent developments and successes, which include:

• Youth Sailing successes
  • Winning performance by Carys Attwell at the RYA Youth Nationals, meaning she will be representing GBR in the Youth Worlds in Brazil.
  • RSC youth team led by Ben Tylecote won the RYA Youth Match Racing Championship and European Youth Match Racing title, with selection to represent GBR at the Youth World Match Racing Champs in Australia.
  • RSC Youth, Adult and Ladies Team Racing is so successful that RSC is currently ranked the No 1 club in the world for team racing.
• UK Blind Sailing has made RSC one of its centres for training as the facilities and two new RS21 keelboats are perfect for their needs.
• The club is embarking on a sustainability programme to save energy and reduce its carbon footprint.

Sara was also updated on the activities of Rutland Sailability, now recovered from the 'Covid years'. With a wealth of experience amassed over nearly 30 years, they continue to facilitate safe and fun sailing for adults and children with disabilities.

Commodore Nick Neve said: "Sara was able to meet many of our council members and volunteers, all of whom have lots of energy and enthusiasm to get things done, and we really enjoyed the opportunity to show Sara around the club and share our exciting ideas for the future."

Sara, who was visiting Rutland as part of a tour to find out more about different clubs in the region, talked about the RYA's vision for the future of sailing and boating, Together on Water.

This coincides with Rutland SC's commitment to attract new members and to encourage everyone to sail. The club at Edith Weston, near Normanton, held an Open Day on Saturday 15 July 2023, giving visitors of all ages an opportunity to get on the water and enjoy the facilities.

The club recently exhibited at the Rutland Show and held a raffle competition where First Prize was 3 hours sailing tuition. Sara drew the winning ticket. The lucky winner has been informed and the club is looking forward to welcoming them along with visitors to its open day.

For further information about Rutland Sailing Club and its open day, visit: www.rutlandsailingclub.co.uk

Or discover more about how to start boating at: www.rya.org.uk/start-boating