After a period of absence from the RYA Volvo Dinghy Show, windsurfing is once again making an appearance on the show programme.

This year there will be two dedicated windsurfing talks taking place in the Coaching Area; ‘Introduction of Windsurfing’ for the complete beginner  and ‘High Wind Windsurfing’ for the more advanced sailor.

When the wind is too strong for a dinghy, windsurfing is a perfect alternative and at 11am both days in the Coaching Area (Hall 1, Panorama Hall), John Morgan will be showing visitors around the latest boards and rigs designed for high wind sailing, as well as giving expert tips on how best to rig them. John has been windsurfing for more than 25 years, making him one of the RYAs most knowledgeable and well respected coaches. Having been an instructor, centre owner and industry member John’s pearls of wisdom are unmissable.

Then at 4pm (Coaching Area, Hall 1, Panorama Hall), the RYA’s Gareth Brookes, Regional Development Officer for the Midlands, dinghy coach and windsurfing instructor,  will be hosting a beginners ‘Introduction to windsurfing’ session.  Gareth’s role at the RYA, knowledge and participation in both sports makes him the perfect person to share basic advice on equipment, how to get started and progress in the exhilarating sport of windsurfing.  You’ll learn about basic rigs and boards, pick up rigging tips, as well as essentials pointers on just how to stay on!

As well as the coaching talks, visitors can also find out at the show about National Windsurfing Week 2010, check out the latest gear at specialist wetsuit company Spartan Wetsuits exhibiting on stand C102 or see what Surf Sales has to offer on stand C104.

Paul Bayliss, RYA Volvo Dinghy Show, show manager said: “We are delighted to be able to offer a selection of specialist windsurfing sessions and be joined by some specialist windsurfing exhibitors at this year’s show.  Windsurfing is an exciting sport that will appeal to many dinghy sailors, and hopefully having these talks at the show will give them the opportunity to find out more.”

The RYA Volvo Dinghy Show takes place at Alexandra Palace, London, 6/7 March.  Tickets cost just £11.00 for adults / £9.00 for RYA members, if you book in advance.  £5.00 for children (5-16 years), free on Sunday, with children who are RYA members going free of charge all weekend.  Visit www.dinghyshow.org.uk to book your tickets now or call the ticket hotline on 0844 811 0409.

Tickets can also be purchased on the door for £13.00 adult and £6.50 child.