Pathway to the water with new status for Paignton Sailing Club

In a superb advancement for watersports in Torbay, Paignton Sailing Club has announced its recent recognition as a British Sailing Pathway Club, a testament to its commitment to supporting young sailors and their racing endeavours.

Created by the Royal Yachting Association (RYA), the British Youth and Junior Sailing Pathway has long been a foundation for success for aspiring sailors.

The Pathway Club programme underpins the Pathway’s Racing for Life initiative, aiming to make racing fun, develop strong sailing fundamentals, and foster a lifelong love of the sport.

It’s a nationwide initiative aimed at identifying and developing clubs across the UK to become centres of excellence for junior racing, offering affordable, high-quality sailing and coaching close to home for junior racers.

By becoming a British Sailing Pathway Club, Paignton Sailing Club joins a network committed to creating fun and accessible racing communities where young sailors can develop fundamental skills and feel part of a team.

Hannah Wilcox, RYA Pathway Club Manager, commented: “We are thrilled to welcome Paignton Sailing Club into the Pathway Club network.

“Their commitment to fostering young talent and promoting accessible, high-quality racing and race training aligns perfectly with the goals of the programme. We look forward to supporting their efforts in inspiring the next generation of sailors.”

Nick Scott, Director of Racing at the RYA, added: “The British Sailing Pathway Club programme is a vital initiative in ensuring young sailors across the UK have access to high-quality training and racing opportunities.

“Clubs like Paignton Sailing Club play a crucial role in nurturing the future of our sport. Their dedication to providing a structured, fun and inspiring environment for junior racers will set up the next generation of sailing superstars as well as those who love the sport for life.”

Morag Aiken, Commodore, from Paignton Sailing Club, added: “Paignton Sailing Club is honoured that the RYA has recognised our ongoing training and development of young sailors from Start Sailing to Racing and even instructor level and coaching.

“Being appointed as the only RYA British Sailing Pathway Club within Torbay will hopefully encourage more people within the region to Discover Sailing and progress and aspire through the RYA Pathway status process.”

As a British Sailing Pathway Club, Paignton Sailing Club will continue to enhance its training programmes, collaborate closely with the RYA, and support young sailors in their journey towards higher levels of competition. The club is excited about the opportunities this status brings and is committed to developing an active junior community that fosters a lifelong love of sailing.

For more information about Paignton Sailing Club and its sailing programmes, please visit www.paigntonsailingclub.co.uk or contact Vanessa Ripley, Club Secretary – email secretary@paigntonsailingclub.co.uk