Milton Keynes & Bucks Youth Sailing Association

The MKBYSAR replaces the former ‘Champion Clubs’. It is a collaboration between four local sailing clubs and is also the name given to the joint team entered each year for the National Schools Sailing Association (NSSA) Regatta. Those attending are chosen during the NSSA Trials which take place in November at Haversham Sailing Club. The MKBYSAR provides sail training and dinghy race coaching to young sailors aged 10-18 years through a structured programme of monthly events held in rotation at the participating club venues. Aspiring youngsters need to be able to rig a boat, launch it and be confident enough to sail around a triangular course and right their boat without assistance should they capsize.

There is a modest admin fee (typically £5) per session and hot food is made available at all events, although packed lunches may be brought. Youngsters are encouraged to use their own boat, but the participating clubs can usually offer boats for loan. Proper clothing will be required, especially in the winter months when wet- or dry suits are the order of the day.

Training sessions are led by RYA qualified race coaches or Instructors with DBS/CRB clearance and full safety boat cover is provided. There is a formal registration process for joiners: a declaration form needs to be signed when sailors first attend, to allow the event organisers to act in loco parentis should parents/guardians not want to stay for the day – although they are very welcome to do so.

For information on the NSSA please click here.