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Tom in action in Port Erin Bay

Sailing in Port Erin Bay

With the IOMYC hosting the Youth Sailing Championships this weekend, young sailor Thomas Howitt talks us through his preparations.

I started sailing from a young age.

A quick break for instructions

Both my dad and grandad encouraged me to give it a try and living on an Island I thought why not.

I am currently working through my sailing grades with my club.

These involve completing a series of tests and challenges.

I should hopefully get my grade 3 soon and there are 4 to pass, so I am doing quite well. It is a great feeling when you get your certificate.

" I think anyone could have a go at sailing, there is so much variety."
Thomas Howitt

I have recently been away to Greece and Croatia with my family and on both holidays I got to put my skills to the test.

After my grades, I will hopefully move onto the Royal Yachting Association adult sailing scheme, which involves racing, day sailing and high performance boats.

I recommend professional training which you can get from any RYA Training Centre.

Thomas shows off his moves

I like sailing because you are constantly learning new skills and testing yourself, but mainly because it is fun.

My club is based in Port Erin which is a great place to sail, there is so much space and it is usually quiet and still, ideal conditions really.

They supply all the boats and kit as well as safety boats and their instructors are really good.

I will be competing against the best Manx sailors in the regatta this weekend, so fingers crossed the training will pay off.

last updated: 27/07/07

Have Your Say

Have you ever tried sailing?

Georgia
looks good i should ty it sumtime x

Jane Kerswell
When can I have a go?

Robert Vereker
Hi i am Toms BEST friend!I sail with Tom, Andy, and Ben and we sail down at port st mary. I am enjoyinmg sailing at the moment!Lots of love Rob xx

James & Greg Kelly
Thanks to 7th Wave & Pt St Mary YC we have had a fabulous 2 years of sailing and we are really enjoying learning and developing our sailing skills. A great sport.

Joe Watson
I am Toms cousin. I had to be rescued by the RNLI off peel beach this summer when i was sailing his boat .

James Walker
Well done to Chris Hill for winning the youth champs.

John
I always tell everyone I meet that sailing is the most exhilarating sport there is. Everyone should try it.

Alison Hinds
I sail on the Isle of Man too, and I agree with Tom that the RYA sailing centres (such as 7th Wave in Port Erin) are an excellent place to start.

Amy Lund
I have just broken up for summer. I think I will go to Port Erin and have a go.Is it expensive ?

Hannah Howitt
I also enjoy sailing in Port Erin, it is a great way to get fresh air and enjoy yourself in the summer!

Sarah Hope
I was over in Port Erin last week and Port Erin Bay looked great. All the boats bobbing around and all the children looked like they were having the time of their lives.

Paula
No, I have never tried it as I am a bit scared of water, but I do like watching others sailing. Thomas, I wish you boats and boats full of luck, and have a great time.

Lauren Stanley
I am interested in having a go at this looks like fun for me and my friends in our summer holiday. We are in Ramsey but from what Tom says Port erin is the place to go.I also loved the surfing. L

Tony Hogan
It has been so good to see boats back in Port Erin Bay. The sailing school adds so much colour. Good luck

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