Datchet Water Sailing Club Achieves Prestigious British Sailing Pathway Club Status.

Published 17:14 on 12 Apr 2024

Datchet Water Sailing Club is pleased to announce its recent recognition as a British Sailing Pathway Club, a testament to its commitment to supporting young sailors and their racing endeavours.

Created by the Royal Yachting Association (RYA), the British Youth and Junior Sailing Pathway has long been a foundation for success for aspiring sailors. The Pathway Club programme underpins the Pathways "Racing for Life" initiative, aiming to make racing fun, develop strong sailing fundamentals, and foster a lifelong love of the sport.

Its a nationwide initiative aimed at identifying and developing clubs across the UK to become centres of excellence for junior racing, offering affordable, high-quality sailing and coaching close to home for junior racers.

By becoming a British Sailing Pathway Club, Datchet Water Sailing Club joins a network committed to creating fun and accessible racing communities where young sailors can develop fundamental skills and feel part of a team.

Hannah Wilcox, RYA Pathway Club Manager, commented:

We are thrilled to welcome Datchet Water Sailing Club into the Pathway Club network. Their commitment to fostering young talent and promoting accessible, high-quality racing and race training aligns perfectly with the goals of the programme. We look forward to supporting their efforts in inspiring the next generation of sailors.

Nick Scott, Director of Racing at the RYA, added:

The British Sailing Pathway Club programme is a vital initiative in ensuring young sailors across the UK have access to high-quality training and racing opportunities. Clubs like Datchet Water Sailing Club play a crucial role in nurturing the future of our sport. Their dedication to providing a structured, fun and inspiring environment for junior racers will set up the next generation of sailing superstars as well as those who love the sport for life.

Jeremy Bennett, Commodore, from Datchet Water Sailing Club, added:

 "I am thrilled that Datchet Water Sailing Club has been recognised as an RYA Pathway Club. This is a significant milestone for us, and a real testament to the dedication of our volunteers, coaches, and junior sailors. Being part of the British Youth Sailing Recognised Clubs scheme allows us to further strengthen our junior race training programme and provide a clear, supported pathway for young sailors to develop their skills and confidence on the water. Were proud to be playing our part in nurturing the next generation of sailors and look forward to seeing our juniors thrive through this exciting opportunity."

As a British Sailing Pathway Club, Datchet Water Sailing Club will continue to enhance its training programmes, collaborate closely with the RYA, and support young sailors in their journey towards higher levels of competition. The club is excited about the opportunities this status brings and is committed to developing an active junior community that fosters a lifelong love of sailing.

This achievement truly reflects the passion and dedication of everyone involved at Datchet - from our brilliant coaches and volunteers to the supportive parents and, of course, our amazing junior sailors. it is a fantastic step forward for the club, and I could not be prouder of what we have acomplished together. I am excited to see how we continue to grow as a hub for youth sailing, and I look forward to seeing more young sailors out on the water and on the start line.

With best regards,

Jeremy Bennett 

Club Commodore 

Datchet Water Sailing Club

Last updated 10:41 on 25 June 2025