13 June 2014
Young people will be able to try out water sports for free next month at a Beach Festival on Sunday 6 July at Bel Royal from 11am to 4pm.
The event aims to give all 10-17 year olds an opportunity to try a wide range of beach and sea-based activities and supports the ‘Fit For The Future’ sports strategy.
Dinghy sailing, RIB trips, kayaking, paddle boarding, banana boat rides and trips on Wetwheels Jersey will the available. Land activities will include cricket, an inflatable football park, rugby, golf, netball, trampolining and zorbing.
There will also be displays from groups including the Sea Cadets, Air Training Corps and Youth Service, and representatives from the sports involved in the 2015 NatWest Island Games.
The festival has been organised by the Jersey Youth Service, Outdoor Education and Sport Development.
Youth Resources Officer Mitch Couriard said “Although we’re an island surrounded by water, we know there are young people who never get the chance to try these sports that are on our doorstep. This is an ideal chance for them to have a taster, get free tuition and engage in sport and positive activity. We are looking forward to a great day.”
Sailing instructor Fleur Moisan (22) took up the sailing when she was just 8 and started teaching at 16. She wants to encourage other young people to try a water sport “I would say definitely give it a go and see if you like it. It’s great to be outdoors and being out at sea gives you a different perspective on the island.”
Outdoor Education Manager Steve Pearl said “The Beach Festival was extremely popular last time it was staged. Thousands of young people took part in a wide range of activities. As well as being fun, watersports can sometimes be challenging and can help young people develop valuable life skills.”
Sports Manager Rachel Sawyer added “Sports groups and adventure activity providers have been really keen to get involved. The Beach Festival will enable young people to see what’s on offer in Jersey, all in one place at one time and in a friendly, informal environment.”
Education Sport and Culture Assistant Minister for Sport Deputy Roy Le Herissier said “This is exactly in line with what we were hoping the sport strategy would achieve. It’s an event that’s open to young people of all abilities and is aimed at making sport fun and getting people active. We hope as many young people as possible will come along.”
All young people who want to take part need permission from their parents in advance.
The parental consent form is available by emailing the Jersey Youth Service or on the Jersey Education Facebook page.
gov.je