We hadn’t heard about this event that took place earlier this month, but according to the press office it was a success. Ed
A new water sports festival organised by Isle of Wight Council’s Sports Unit has demonstrated that a new sport was top of the picks amongst young people.
A variety of water sports were available to try for free during the ‘Make Waves’ event held earlier in September in East Cowes. The event was organised to encouraged youngsters into a sport they may not often try and to encourage them to continue their interest.
Paddleboarding a favourite
Despite traditional favourites such as windsurfing and sailing on offer, most youngsters tried stand up paddleboarding.
The sport, which sees users stand on a lengthened surf board and use a type of oar, has no formal club on the Island. It’s also been in the news recently with two men successfully circumnavigating the Isle of Wight using a stand-up paddleboard for charity.
Lee Matthews, Isle of Wight Council Community Leisure Development Manager, said “The day was a great success and we were certainly surprised to see stand up paddleboarding be the main choice of sport for users.
“Although there are no formal clubs on the Island, a few local organisations are holding more regular events as the sport becomes more popular. This is great for the young people because it means they can get access to the sport, which in turn helps boost fitness levels.”
Over 60 taking part
He went on to say, “Make Waves was a very successful day with well over 60 young people taking part, all of whom reported positive feedback so we’re certainly looking at putting on a similar event again”
Among the organisations that provided the sports were the Island Youth Water Activities Centre, UKSA, Medina Valley Centre, Wight Water, Shanklin Sailing Club and Ryde Sea Cadets. Numerous volunteers also made the day possible, as well as support from Henri Lloyd, Harkin, RS Sailing and the Royal Yachting Association which all helped supply equipment.
The festival was also part of the promotional campaign ahead of the 2011 NatWest Island Games which are being held on the Isle of Wight next summer.
Image: Mike Baird under CC BY 2.0
