Lough Derg Yacht Club rounded off a successful summer of sailing with a Women on the Water Pink Picnic Sail in aid of Breast Cancer Ireland. Supported through Irish Sailing funding from Sport Ireland, the initiative is helping create new pathways for women to get involved in sailing and become part of local sailing clubs communities.
The event saw a flotilla of pink decorated boats sail from Lough Derg Yacht Club to Dromaan, where sailors enjoyed a picnic, music, and a raffle, all the while raising funds for charity. The event also celebrated the growth of the club’s Women on the Water programme which was established only two years ago. Several women who initially got involved through the programme are now regular sailors and active club members.
Irish Sailing was delighted to attend the event and see first hand the impact that the programme is having. Initiatives like these provide a welcoming entry point into sailing, helping clubs attract new participants, grow membership and build a lasting community with the sport. This is a great achievement for the Women on the Water organisers, volunteers and everyone who helped make this event a success.
Any clubs around the country that are interested in starting a Women on the Water initiative can contact oonagh.healy@sailing.ie at Irish Sailing for support on any available funding.