Dinghy sailing stars galore at Dinghy Sailing Show
by Emma Slater, RYA 15 Jan 2008 18:01 GMT
1-2 March 2008
Whether you’re an aspiring dinghy sailor or have years of sailing experience, nothing could be more inspirational then hearing from the crème de la crème of dinghy sailors for those invaluable hints and tips. At this year’s RYA Dinghy Sailing Show, in association with Yachts and Yachting and Suzuki, you can do just that, with top dinghy sailing stars including Geoff Holt and sailors from the British Olympic team providing insights in to their sailing experiences.
Geoff Holt, who in 2007 became the first disabled sailor to complete a singlehanded circumnavigation of Great Britain, will give a fascinating insight into a trip he dubbed his ‘Personal Everest’, in his talk ‘Extreme Cruising’ (Main Stage, 10:00, Saturday and Sunday).
He will outline the trials and tribulations of an epic 109 day journey, undertaken on a tiny 15ft trimaran. Prepare to be inspired as he tells of his battles against the worst weather the British summer could throw at him, including being flung from his boat just after the start, and a rollercoaster ride in the Irish Sea.
Geoff said: “I always knew that this was going to be my ultimate challenge, with the weather standing as my main enemy. I left the yacht club at 1pm and was nearly drowned by ten past. It just made me even more determined to prove the doubters wrong.”
Alongside Geoff, the show boasts a plethora of Olympic sailing hopefuls for you to rub shoulders with as they gear up for the Olympic Games in August, creating a real buzz around the show.
Key members of the team will be taking to the main stage throughout the weekend (Main Stage, 13:15, Saturday and Sunday), talking you through the trials and tribulations they have experienced on the road to Beijing in a special interview with Yachts and Yachting editor, Gael Pawson.
Three times Laser European Champion and Skandia Team GBR’s Paul Goodison will also give visitors a master class on Laser racing, whilst top coach Adam Bowers unlocks the essential principals for good communication, an essential factor for successful sailing in ‘Winning Talk’.
The Dinghy Sailing Show takes place at Alexandra Palace, London, Saturday 01 and Sunday 02 March. Go online at www.dinghysailingshow.org.uk to book your tickets or call the ticket hotline on 0845 345 0424. By pre-booking your tickets you will also automatically be entered in to a free prize draw to win a fantastic family holiday from Crystal Active – for full details visit the website.
Geoff Holt concluded: “The Dinghy Sailing Show is just a fantastic show, I’ve been going for ten years now and it really is the best place to pick up all the latest gizmos. I’m absolutely thrilled to be there.”