Windsurfing clubs across the country are getting into the party spirit and taking to the water in celebration of the RYA Team15’s 10th birthday. With balloons, birthday cake and plenty of activities for the kids and their parents, Team15 clubs will be hosting their very own parties throughout the summer to mark the special birthday.

The first party was held at Lakes Leisure Windermere (30 April) where 20 young windsurfers took to the water for sailing and windsurfing races, fun games and lots of birthday cake back on the shore. The youngsters even had the opportunity to share their sailing skills with their parents who joined in with some of the races.

Alex, age 13 and member of the Windermere Ruf Winds said “We really enjoyed the thrill and privilege of sailing on Windermere. The cake was a bonus too on such a wonderful day. I look forward to spending many more afternoons enjoying myself afloat with Team15.”

RYA Windsurfing Development Officer Gillian Wright who was instrumental in developing the Team15 programme said: “We are very excited to be celebrating our 10th anniversary, and now that the weather is getting warmer we hope that more and more Team15 clubs will host their own parties. We’ll also be giving Team15 birthday cake and bunting to clubs who do want to join in with the celebrations.”

Created in 200l, Team15 was initially developed to form a network of windsurfing clubs and to introduce more youngsters into competitive windsurfing, introducing the sport to youngsters aged 15 and under, of all backgrounds and abilities.

If you’re a Team15 club who would like to hold a 10th birthday party please return your pre-event forms to [email protected].

Supported by industry leaders Tushingham/Starboard, Boards magazine and Neil Pryde, T15 was set up by the RYA to help make windsurfing more accessible and appealing to youngsters at a grass roots level.

Fun and informal training sessions take place at T15 clubs all over the country for kids up to the age of 15, which are run weekly by specialist RYA coaches.

The T15 inter-club championship takes place regionally over the summer adding a competitive edge and race training for those keen to hone their skills.

Kit can be borrowed from the clubs and the cost of sessions is kept low.

To get involved with Team15 and locate your nearest local club visit www.team15.org.uk or contact the RYA 0845 345 0400.