Marine Articles

'Sailing is an elitist sport!'

If you are reading this article, have never sailed before and agree with that statement, then I should warn you that being somewhat of a nautical town, there are probably a few people out there right now who would probably say something that sounds a bit like rollocks.

You see they would argue, (and as your Mum used to say about your greens), 'if you haven't ever tried it, then how do you know?' Frankly they'll agree though I'm sure, that it is an almost understandable assumption in Britain, given the completely disproportionate coverage of sailing in the national press, not to mention a shameful abscence in the curriculum of most schools. So the people (the vast majority of whom who aren't loaded or elitist) who would vehemently disagree with the statement, would also equally probably welcome you with open arms to show you what you've been missing.

It may amuse you even, but many of them spend most of their time wishing they could criticise the French for the way that they promote sailing as a national sport from as soon as the kids can walk, but they can't because they're too jealous and sailors aren't generally hyprocritical. They certainly don't have the time or inclination to look down their noses at non-sailors or try and exclude them in any way from sharing the joys of the sport.

So why should you feel like sailing is elitist? Well it isn't the sailors that are perpetuating that myth, it's the great British press and establishment who are conspicuous in their abscence. Dame Ellen MacArthur has done wonders for the sport it's true, and having spoken to a good friend who gave her one of her first grotty corners of a marina to sleep in back in the early days, she truly does demonstrate that sailing is available to anyone. Unfortunately what we need is an Ellen in every town, like they have in France. (Well at least locally as prolific.)

Next time you're thinking of blowing £150 or so over a weekend, doing not very much, then why not get yourself out on the water and meet some of these elitist snobs face to face. The RYA has long lists of where they hang out around the country and you can get some fresh air and give them a piece of your mind.

Our view; well if thousands and thousands of you started ringing the RYA asking where they can find a local sailing school or sailing club, or put pressure on your kids' school to include sailing in the curriculum, then we think the world would be a better place. But that's just us!

Remember, the Olympics will be on home turf as soon as you can say 'look at Ben go', so if you're not worried about being considered elitist and unworthy of any press attention then come and join the gang. We'll all be having a blast! JS