Notes From A Beginner : Season 2009

"Upon returning to live in Thanet after living inland for some 20 years or so, I decided I would like to take up dinghy sailing, something I had thought of doing for many years but had never got round to. Sailing appealed to me over other sports in that it offered the chance of exercising in the fresh air, learning new skills, whilst taking advantage of our fine coastline.

Searching the internet, I hit upon the welcoming website for Margate Yacht Club. I took the plunge - er, not literally and entered thee club's premises one Sunday in April to find out how I might make a start. The warm greeting I received was followed by a tour of the Club's boat pound where the features of a number of 'Club and Members' own dinghy's were explained. Within a week of my visit I was invited for a 'try sail' as crew for a Club Instructor and this introduction to sailing continued through the season, interspersed with 'one on one' lessons where I sailed to the boat and an instructor crewed. I also had a couple of sessions on my own in a single hander dinghy being supervised by an instructor sailing alongside.

I am extremely please with the progress I have made over a short period of time and now look forward to next season when I hope to become proficient in the rewarding sport.

If you have ever considered taking up sailing, I strongly recommend that you come along and see what the Club has to offer. You are certain of a warm welcome among a friendly, non elite, sailing fraternity."

From A New Member