Lough Ree Yacht Club embraces 'Sail Spree' plan to get people on the water

The Irish Sailing Association (ISA) with the assistance of TV personality Kathryn Thomas have launched 'Sail Spree' a new initiative to encourage people to get on the water over the weekend of June 23/24. On the Sunday of Sail Spree weekend Lough Ree Yacht Club will offer 'on the water' taster sessions in sailing and power boating. Situated at the foot of Lough Ree and only two kilometres north of Athlone, Lough Ree Yacht Club is a friendly, family orientated club. During their Sail Spree event they will be supplementing the exhilarating experience of sailing with games and entertainment on shore, there is bound to be something for everyone to make an excellent choice for a family day out. The Sail Spree campaign is similar to the nationally acclaimed 'Culture Night' whereby clubs and training centres all over Ireland will open their doors to the public to try sailing, windsurfing, power boating or jet skiing. Many clubs will also provide on shore activities including entertainment, food, drink and music guaranteeing a great day out for all the family. Commenting on the launch, ISA CEO Harry Hermon stated: "We are surrounded by a beautiful natural resource which provides us with unlimited capabilities for recreation. The ISA is passionate about introducing new people to the excitement of sailing, windsurfing and motor-boating. No matter what your age, location or budget, whether you want to join in a fun recreational hobby or competitive sport, there will be a club or school near you offering that very service. We hope that opening our doors for Sail Spree will encourage local communities to try something new and explore the possibilities on their doorstep." Sail Spree has been developed in acknowledgment of the increased interest in sailing over the past number of years. Events such as the Volvo Ocean Race and the Tall Ships Festivals have brought sailing into the public eye and have undoubtedly sparked intrigue in this thrilling outdoor sport. With the Olympics less than three months away and with eight sailors representing Ireland at the Games, sailing will continue to capture the nation's attention. To book your place or find out more about Sail Spree events in your area check out www.sailspree.ie.