The RYA Dinghy Sailing Show takes place this weekend (4 – 5 March) at Alexandra Palace, London.

The family-focused show will see the RYA launching a nationwide youth awareness campaign that will lead up to and beyond the 2012 Olympic Games. Supported by sailing celebrities including Sarah Ayton and Nick Dempsey, the campaign hopes to ensure the continued success of sailing as a sport. Targeting children of all ages and experience, the RYA aim to attract a new generation onto the water, increase general youth participation and find tomorrow’s winners in the racing world. Marking the launch of the campaign, a World Record attempt to see how many children they can get ‘on board’ in a dinghy will take place on the Sunday morning of the show.

To encourage younger children into sailing, the RYA has developed a new series of illustrated, easy-to-read books; ‘Go Sailing’ gives top tips and advice to young sailors, with an accompanying activity book to entertain. The show will also feature treasure hunts and face painting for kids.

For the next generation there is a full live events programme aimed at encouraging newcomers to get involved in sailing. A separate Coaching Area will feature a host of professionals and experts to help existing sailors to get the most out of their boats. Talks will focus on rig tuning, race performance and tactics, and RYA coaches will be available throughout the weekend to answer individuals’ questions.

2005 Young Sailors of the Year, Craig Paul, Sam Coombs and James Hopson will also be at the show. The boys will be accompanied by Nell Hardie, who they saved from drowning after the dinghy she was sailing with Craig capsized and she became entangled in ropes.

For tickets call 0845 345 0424
For further information see www.dinghysailingshow.org.uk