Sint Maarten, August 18, 2023
The Sint Maarten Yacht Club is thrilled to announce the grand celebration of its Sailing School departments 30th anniversary on September 16, 2023. With three decades of nurturing a love for sailing and maritime sports, the Sailing School has become an iconic institution on the island, fostering a vibrant community of sailors and maritime enthusiasts.
To mark this remarkable milestone, the Sint Maarten Yacht Club Sailing School is hosting a day of festivities. The celebration will feature the “Bart’s Bash” sailing race, free try-out sailing sessions, the launch of the groundbreaking “Sailability” project and a sizzling barbeque on the dock.
The Sint Maarten Yacht Club was established in 1980 with the goal to promote sailing and watersports in and around the island of St Maarten. In 1993, 30 years ago, a group of volunteers collaborated to raise funds so the first club Optimists (small sailboats) could be bought. Shortly after the first casual classes were organized, mainly parents teaching their children, from a temporary container at the beach at Port de Plaisance. Over the years, dedicated commitment has lead to where the sailing school is today with more than 150 kids enrolled for the upcoming season, participating in the regular sailing classes and the primary school program.
“We are happy to celebrate 30 years of sharing our passion for sailing with the community,” said Saskia Revelman, Manager of the SMYC.
The day’s excitement will kick off with the competitive “Barth’s Bash” sailing race, starting and finishing from the dock at the yacht club so that competitors can showcase their skills to proud parents and spectators.
During the afternoon, all interested individuals, young and old, are invited to experience the thrill of sailing through a free try-out sailing session. Aspiring sailors can take the helm and feel the wind in their sails under the guidance of experienced instructors, making this event the perfect opportunity to introduce sailing to new enthusiasts.
Undoubtedly the highlight of the celebration, the Sint Maarten Yacht Club Sailing School will unveil its groundbreaking “Sailability” project, a new project which will enable the Sailing School to introduce the sport of sailing to people with disabilities. The launch of the Sailability boat marks a new chapter in the school’s commitment to inclusivity and accessibility, making sailing an enjoyable and empowering experience for individuals of all abilities. With a special boat – called a RS Venture Connect – designed for this purpose, the SMYC launches their Sailability project funded by the World Trust Fund, with assistance from R4CR.
“This milestone is a testament to the dedication of our members, instructors, and supporters who have helped shape the Sailing School into what it is today. We are excited to continue promoting the joy of sailing while embracing new initiatives like the Sailability project.” Revelman continued.
At the end of the day the participants of the activities, SMYC members and invited guests can enjoy some barbeque flavors and drinks on the dock to celebrate this special moment.
For more information about the 30th birthday celebration of the Sint Maarten Yacht Club Sailing School, please contact Saskia Revelman at saskia@smyc.com