With the return of our Junior Sailing Academy this May, Sharon de Bhaldraithe, Junior Organiser at Galway City Sailing Club, shares how sailing can have a lasting impact on young people – building their confidence, resilience and opening up exciting opportunities both on and off the water. She explains how your child can get started by joining our upcoming Junior Sailing Academy this May.
Start Their Journey: From First Sails to Future Adventures
The confidence, resilience and pure joy that comes from a child completing one of our Junior Academy courses is something truly special. We’ve seen it firsthand.
Since our very first Junior Academy in 2018, our young sailors have gone from learning the ropes to becoming highly skilled instructors. Many now lead courses here at Galway City Sailing Club, sail with the University of Galway, work with Coiste Uisce in Belmullet and some have even taken their passion for sailing as far as Greece! With the encouragement of their families and the support of the club, these juniors have grown into confident, capable young adults – and it all started with a course like this.
With the summer just around the corner, there’s no better time to get involved. Our next Junior Academy begins on Sunday, 11 May 2025, running for six consecutive Sunday mornings (10:00–13:00). The course is open to both members and non-members and is ideal for children who have completed an introductory sailing course. Participants will be grouped according to experience, from beginner to advanced.
The price remains the same as last year’s six-week course and junior members benefit from a discounted rate, making it even more accessible.
We’re lucky to have fantastic facilities, including a fully equipped training room, changing rooms and toilets – all in a stunning waterside location right in the heart of Galway City. Add to that our experienced and enthusiastic instructors and it’s a recipe for an unforgettable sailing experience.
If your child has already taken an introduction to sailing, this six-week programme will build on that foundation, giving them a big boost in confidence and skills.
We’d love to see them on the water with us!
If you have any questions, feel free to contact me directly.
Sharon de Bhaldraithe
Junior Organiser, Galway City Sailing Club
