The National Yacht Club is thrilled to announce its success in securing a significant grant under the latest round of the Sports Capital and Equipment Programme (SCEP). Minister Catherine Martin T.D. revealed on May 9th that over âŹ26 million has been allocated to over 900 sports groups across Ireland, with the National Yacht Club receiving one of the largest individual grants.
Out of 3,210 applications submitted, the National Yacht Club’s proposal for two 5-metre rescue ribs and an Echo 90 keelboat to promote inclusivity in sailing stood out, resulting in a generous grant of âŹ120,526. This grant will significantly enhance the club’s capacity to support diverse participation in sailing activities.
The successful application was the product of a dedicated team effort. Junior Committee members, led by Rebecca Johnston, and the Disability Team, led by Ruth Shanahan, collaborated closely with Sailing Manager Olivier Prouveur, who skillfully coordinated and submitted the comprehensive application.
Minister Catherine Martin T.D. highlighted the vital role of sporting organizations in communities, stating, “Our sporting organisations are at the heart of our communities, providing opportunities for people to participate in healthy activities and to enjoy the successes of their teams and their sporting heroes.”
While the National Yacht Club celebrates this fantastic achievement, the journey does not end here. The club is committed to meeting the rigorous conditions of the grant and upholding its pledge to inclusivity. Additionally, the club must secure the remaining 20% of the funds required to purchase and equip the new rescue ribs and Echo 90 sailboat which is specifically designed and built to accommodate sailors OF ALL ABILITIES!
The ECHO 90, which will come equipped with both asymmetric and symmetric spinnakers, reduced mobility bucket seats with anchor points for wheelchairs, fully batten mainsail and mizzen, lazy jacks, boom sailbags and furling jib will be at the centre of all our training programmes ranging from the Summer junior courses to Adult Sail Training to Competent Crew training to Sailability and lets not forget our TYs!! It will also join our revived cruising section for day trips to the neighbouring marinas for all members to enjoy!
In effect, the ECHO 90 will become the flagship of the National Yacht Club and its ethos of providing quality sailing programmes to people of all abilities!
The National Yacht Club would therefore like to invite potential sponsors to seize this opportunity to demonstrate their commitment to Corporate and Social Responsibility. Sponsorship would not only support the club’s inclusivity initiatives but also provide visibility for sponsors, with logos prominently displayed on the new grant-aided craft in the harbour.
Congratulations to everyone involved in this successful application! The National Yacht Club looks forward to enhancing its facilities and continuing to foster an inclusive and vibrant sailing community.
