The Get Wet Campaign, which kicked off this summer, is an initiative designed to get more people into watersports across Northern Ireland and encourage participants to join local water sports clubs.
The campaign has seen a range of water sport clubs based all over Northern Ireland offering local people an opportunity to ‘Have a Go’ in a variety of water sports for free or at a significantly reduced cost!
From a 5-day Sailing Summer Scheme by East Antrim Boat Club; yachting for beginners delivered by Rodger’s Quay in Carrickfergus; to St Ayles Skiff Rowing for Beginners in Killyleagh Harbour, there is something for everyone, catering for all abilities. More events launching in September.
Speaking on the campaign, Mike McClure from SportNI said: “With people looking for ways to improve their physical and mental health, water sports such as stand-up paddle boarding, kayaking, open water swimming and recreational sailing have all seen a sharp increase in take up since restrictions have eased.
“This campaign is a fantastic opportunity to try out a water sport for the first time in a friendly environment under the guidance of competent coaches and instructors, and subsequently find out how you can continue to enjoy it by becoming part of a local club. It aims to encourage sustained local participation and to raise awareness of the amazing water-based recreation opportunities in Northern Ireland.
“The events offered as part of this campaign are suitable for anyone looking to get into a water sport in their area. No experience is necessary, and we have seen more and more people not traditionally associated with water sports dipping their toe into these fantastic sports.”
Some events are subject to minimum or maximum requirements specified by the event organiser: e.g., age, health, height, or weight. This is outlined in the information provided in the ‘Suitability’ section of each event. It is the participant’s responsibility to ensure they conform to the minimum requirements.
A current list of events planned can be viewed here: http://getwetni.com/events
Get Wet is funded by SportNI with support from a range of water based National Governing Bodies (NGBs). The NGBs involved in this campaign are the Canoe Association of Northern Ireland, the Royal Yachting Association Northern Ireland, British Sub Aqua Club Ireland, Angling NI, Rowing Ireland, Irish Kite Surfing Association, and the Irish Water ski and Wakeboarding Federation.
The 2021 campaign is funded by Sport NI’s Build Back Better Project: Re-boot.