Poolbeg Yacht & Boat Club was delighted to put the IS Club Disability Grant to excellent use in early September. The grant supported a two-day Powerboat Course at PYBC, attended by the Watersports Inclusion Games ambassador, Zoe Mulvey.
Zoe, who is passionate about powerboating, had already completed her first stage Powerboat license. This course allowed her to build on her skills and knowledge, with the long-term aim of advancing further in her training. Despite windy and gusty conditions, Zoe managed with great skill and confidence under the instruction of Tom Gaffney.
Highlights of the weekend included Zoe gaining a bird’s eye view of the Peruvian Tall Ship UNION, which happened to be in port, and being personally invited back to PYBC anytime by Commodore Jimmy Daly.
By the end of the two days, Zoe showed clear improvement in her boat handling skills. While the course was challenging, she thoroughly enjoyed the experience and left “wrecked but happy.”
Looking ahead, we plan to approach the committee about developing a more regular training schedule next year, perhaps twice a month for two hours, so Zoe and other participants can continue to build on these foundations.
We are very grateful for the support of the ISA. The grant has been fully used, and it has provided real impact for Zoe’s progression and for inclusivity in our club.