Scaling Dam is an ideal place for children to learn to sail, and to practise their skills once they become proficient. That is why we have been able to build up the numbers of youngsters sailing at Scaling.

Training

We run some RYA training courses through the season, the first of these is usually in May and then there is sometimes one in August or September, although these are dependent on volunteers and are run when possible.

Clubs

There are Junior and Youth Clubs, on many occasions these are run together. The dates are in the Club Year Book and displayed on the Junior/Youth notice board. These are sessions of activities to get the children on the water and to have fun. They are not intended to teach them how to sail, and they should have some knowledge of sailing before they participate. The minimum age for Junior Club is 8 years. We also encourage the children to take part in simple races to put them one step closer to joining in mainstream club events. Adult help is always needed on club days and parents or guardians should expect to have some participation in giving assistance in some way.

Junior Open

This is a competition held on one day during the season. It is open to any young sailor who has their own boat and can sail a triangle. There is a series of races and the winners are awarded prizes.

Regatta

The Regatta is held in July and is a weekend of activities mainly on the water. For the youngsters, there is an event scheduled for the Saturday afternoon and the main Junior/Youth Regatta is held on Sunday. This year there were team games with a lot of splashing and getting wet, followed by some races. The winner of the Regatta races is awarded a trophy at the end of the season.

Racing

As already said, we encourage our young sailors to race so that they may join in with main club races. There are races on Wednesday nights, and there are special awards given for results by Juniors and Youths during the Summer months. The 12 o'clock race on Sunday can also be sailed with the chance of winning a special Junior or Youth award. Normal Sunday afternoon racing is open to the youngsters should they want to participate.

Social Events

In addition to the events already mentioned, there is a Sailcamp reunion held in October which is also open to those who did not manage to get a place on the year's Sailcamp. At this event, booking forms are available for the following year's Sailcamp. You need to book early. There are other social events run by the Social Committee with appeal to younger club members. There is no smoking allowed in the Club House so it is a healthy environment for the children.

Keeping in Touch

You can read about what is happening on the notice board and in the Dam News. If you have any enquiries or comments you can talk to any member of the Committee and especially to the Junior/Youth Co-ordinator!