Maldon: Blackwater Sailing Club hosts open day event

Blackwater Sailing Club held the open day to give budding sailors the chance to discover the sport and experience the club’s facilities.

The club, in Basin Road, Heybridge, was founded in 1899 and is owned and run by its members, who organise races, social events and much more.

During the open day, almost 160 visitors turned up and were given taster sessions led by experienced sailors on the tidal Blackwater Estuary.

Boat - a child, parent, and Blackwater Sailing Club member on a Quest sailboat (Image: Anna Lau)

Good times - a family enjoying a Blackwater Sailing Club boat trip (Image: Anna Lau)

Thrilling - three boats on the tidal Blackwater Estuary (Image: Anna Lau)

Adults and children alike were able to sail alongside members in Quest sailboats and Zest dinghies on the club’s lake.

As the time came in, they were taken out on cruisers and powerboats to enjoy the estuary.

Rear-Commodore Allan Hunt said: “I was delighted that so many local visitors as well as those from further afield joined us for our open day, particularly as it was so chilly.

“Everyone said it had been very enjoyable experience and how much they had been made to feel welcome. 

Smiles all round - Blackwater Sailing Club members and attendees enjoying the day (Image: Anna Lau)

Social - Two Quest sailboats (Image: Anna Lau)

Adorable - an attendee and her pet out on the river (Image: Anna Lau)

“Some joined the club there and then and others, we hope, will be joining us soon. 

“We welcome anyone who is interested in sailing to contact us via our web site to arrange a visit.”

He added: “The open day would not have been possible and run so smoothly without the huge army of our volunteers. 

“On behalf of the club, I’d like to thank them all for all for their hard work and efforts.”

Mr Hunt said the club is “family-friendly” and attracts sailors of all abilities.

Some compete internationally, but other would “rather keep their feet dry and enjoy the social aspect" of the club.

Happy to help - Blackwater Sailing Club members (Image: Zoe Nelson)

Helping hand - a family on a boat (Image: Anna Lau)

The club also holds a regatta every year, and a cadet week which is enjoyed by around 160 youngsters.

There are several cadet training weekends throughout the year which teach fundamental, vital sailing skills.

For more information about Blackwater Sailing Club, visit blackwatersailingclub.org.uk.