Yachts & Yachting editorial

New Members?

There are some sailing clubs where you definitely feel out of place in a suit, whereas in others, you would feel distinctly underdressed if you weren't. The mix of pin-striped suits and jeans in the bar which greeted me was very refreshing. It was a nice reminder of what a great leveller our sport can be with students and city suits enjoying a drink as they planned their forthcoming season of sailing.

I was enjoying my anonymity as I idly watched a rowing skiff glide past the window in the early dusk. "Are you thinking of joining?" I had to confess I wasn't, but listened with interest as the club's offshore and dinghy programmes were explained to a variety of potential new members. It was Tuesday night, social night at the London Corinthian SC, and on the first Tuesday of each month, anyone remotely interested in joining or taking up sailing is particularly encouraged to drop in for their new members' night.

The London Corinthian is situated in the heart of London, a 15 minute walk from Hammersmith tube station, and for many it was a case of dropping in straight from work - hence the mix of attire.

That aside I was really impressed by the way they had dinghy and offshore programmes that seemed well designed to get people into the sport for the first time, or re-aquainted with an interest they had let lapse, as well as catering to the experienced. Race events were interspersed with training events, so it was easy to look at the year and plan a way to get yourself trained up and involved. You can even sign up for one event to find out if it's definitely for you before joining - it seemed easy and straightforward. Definitely the best welcome for newcomers I've yet found. There must be a host of other clubs with other good ways of organising things which we can learn from - get writing to us a share your successes.

Gael Pawson

Editor, Yachts and Yachting