The dates for Push The Boat Out 2016 have been announced as 14 – 22 May.
Following the success of the America’s Cup World Series Portsmouth, Push The Boat Out is the perfect event to get afloat and give sailing a go.
This year’s event saw over 24,000 newcomers to the sport attend events at almost 350 locations across the UK, with around 16,000 people taking to the water. Venues provided opportunities to go afloat in dinghies, yachts and on windsurf boards, alongside a range of off-the-water activities.
So far, according to feedback from clubs and centres, the event has attracted over 2000 individual and nearly 1500 family memberships following their Push the Boat Out events. Importantly, over 3000 individuals have signed up for follow-on activities including additional taster sessions and start sailing courses.
For the first time, PTBO was held over a 9-day period, and the same format will be retained for 2016. In the East, Grafham Water Sailing Club held a hugely successful open day, welcoming 50 visitors through their doors and managing to entice an impressive 30 new club members – a significant increase on last year’s numbers. “I think this is a great idea to get all clubs and centres doing the same thing over the same period of time – it makes you feel part of the event. It ran extremely well for us, and we received a lot of support. It was a brilliant year for PTBO, roll on 2016!”
RYA Sports Development Manager Duncan Truswell said: “Push the Boat Out enabled thousands of new participants to get afloat and try sailing this year, with many people finding their local sailing provider for the first time. Clubs and centres continue to get better and better at providing a welcoming environment, and we are really excited for next year’s event which I’m sure will prove even more popular.
“With the America’s Cup World Series taking place in the UK once more in 2016 and of course the Rio Olympics just around the corner, it is a fantastic time to reach out to those inspired to try sailing by these unique events. Push The Boat Out will be the perfect opportunity for new people try out our fantastic sport.” Planning is underway to make PTBO 2016 even more successful, with record numbers expected.
With clubs and centres organising next season’s activities well in advance, the dates for PTBO 2016 have been confirmed as early as possible, so that planning for individual events can begin in good time and next year’s event can prove the best yet.
For more information about PTBO 2016 please e-mail ptbo@rya.org.uk