Itchenor to welcome juniors for Fortnight

Heralding the start of the summer holidays, Junior Fortnight provides young sailors – aged eight to 18 – with the opportunity to test out their skills in dinghy racing.

Last year’s event saw 230 competitors of all abilities take to the water in Mirror, Laser, Topper and International 420 classes.

The annual sailing competition has been a popular fixture on Itchenor Sailing Club’s calendar for over 50 years.

And 2016 will be no exception as the club gets set to welcome families from across the south for water-based activities.

An integral part of the fortnight, the social programme is packed full of activities for children – from pool parties, garden games, raft races to crabbing competitions and quiz nights.

One of the highlights of the social timetable last year included a talk by Volvo Ocean Race-winning skipper and Itchenor member Ian Walker.

Parents are also given the opportunity to sail themselves in fun races such as the mothers’ topper event and the parents’ single-handed races.

The social timetable caters for adults, too, as each year the club hosts a parents party – a themed evening with drinks and dinner.

‘One of the most rewarding aspects of the event is watching the young competitors’ confidence and sailing skills improve throughout the two weeks,’ said Commodore of Itchenor Sailing Club, Charles Hyatt.

‘For some it is an introduction to the world of dinghy racing, but it is unlikely to be their last as, unsurprisingly, many will return year after year for this great event.’

All Junior Fortnight competitors must be members of either Itchenor Sailing Club, a Federated Chichester Harbour Club, a RYA affiliated club, or crewing for a member of such a club.

Classes that can take part include Mirror, Laser, Topper and International 420.

As part of a five-year sponsorship agreement with MPI Brokers, the travel insurance specialist will be sponsoring Junior Fortnight as well as the annual Schools Week event.

For more information on participating in Junior Fortnight visit itchenorsc.co.uk or contact the club office on 01243 512400.