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15:08 Monday 10 Aug 2015 Exciting day out for Westminster sailing charity children

Youngsters from Westminster Boating Base prepare for their day on the water – photo AAMCW

A group of five young children from London’s Westminster Boating Base have been given the opportunity to sail during Aberdeen Asset Management Cowes Week.

Thanks to Aberdeen Asset Management Charitable Foundation – one of the Boating Base supporters – and UKSA who provide the J/80, youngsters from the base are enjoying an educational day on the water.

Westminster Boating Base is a charity that teaches dinghy sailing, powerboating, kayaking and canoeing to young people and adults in central London. It is located on the River Thames in a secluded riverside park and offers a variety of courses that includes RYA Level 1 Start Sailing, RYA Level 2 Basic Skills, and RYA Stages 1, 2 and 3.

Pippa Viles one of the volunteers leading the group at Aberdeen Asset Mangeament Cowes Week today said: “We are very grateful that Aberdeen Asset Management have provided this opportunity for our young sailors to attend the regatta for a couple of year now. It is a real educational day out and gives the childen a glimpse in to what’s on offer for the future, and demonstrates just how much fun sailing is.”

Chatting about the club and who it is aimed, Viles continued: “We open the doors to everyone but those between the age of 10 to 23 can join for just £10 a year. Our oldest member is in her 80s and we have free sessions for over 50s too. We also facilitate school groups, disability groups and anyone who wants to come and learn to sail.”

Martina Carbone (12) explained why she was so excited about attending Aberdeen Asset Management Cowes Week: “I have been sailing two years and I was fortunate to have been selected to attend the regatta last year too. I learnt such a lot, in particular about trimming the sails. I learnt how important it is to concentrate all the time and how much difference sail trim makes to boat speed. I also hope that what I learnt I will be able to pass on to those who are sailing here for the first time.”

Patrick Kyle added: “This is my first time at the regatta and I am really looking forward to it. I am particularly excited about sailing on the J/80, and having the experience of sailing with so many other boats.”

Nigel Berman, volunteer, was keen to express thanks to sponsors: “Although we raise money though venue hire, and through the school sailing courses we run throughout the year, we are terribly reliant on the generosity of companies like Aberdeen Asset Management who help support us with the purchase of kit and boats. We are particularly grateful to them for providing the opportunity for our youngsters to participate in Cowes Week.”