Encouraging women to experience sailing

Linda Parish on Toyshop providing an opportunity for women to experience sailing for themselves at last year’s WOWW.

In 2019 Yachting NZ launched the Women and Girls in Sailing Strategy with the primary objective of cultivating and growing a vibrant female sailing community. 

This resulted in a number of events hosted by yacht clubs to provide opportunities for women of any age to experience sailing, whether they’re completely new to the sport, would like to improve their skills or just have fun with other women out on the water.

Last year Gulf Harbour Yacht Club joined in, holding a Women on Water Weekend (WOWW). A total of 120 women took part, from ages 15-81, and from complete novices to national champions.

This year, the yacht club will again host WOWW, on March 15-17.

Event manager, Sarah Morgan, says word has spread following the success of last year’s WOWW and a group of women is coming over from Australia to take part.

The first day will focus on getting to know each other and familiarisation with the boats, plus an overview of what to expect over the two race days. On the Saturday night, participants can enjoy a buffet dinner and dance the night away.

She says many local business are supporting WOWW with spot prizes and sponsorship. 

Registration is open now, and closes on February 23. Info: www.ghyc.co.nz/page/woww