In the lead-up to this month’s International Women’s Day, Belmont 16s Sailing Club is keen to showcase the female role models within its organisation.
Not only is the sporting group running a 16-day campaign, profiling one member or volunteer daily, but it’s also scheduled a SHEsail event on Sunday 5 March.
As a result, Belmont 16s invites female sailors – both junior and senior – as well as supporters to attend a Ladies 16ft Skiff race from 11.25am.
“International Women’s Day (8 March) is important to our club,” sailing manager Nadine Steenson said.
“We’re incredibly proud to have a large contingent of amazing female sailors and volunteers in Belmont’s ranks.
“But, we would like to encourage, and inspire, more girls and women into our great sport.
“We’d always welcome them to join our 16ft skiff fleet.”
At the recent Flying 11 Nationals, Giggle & Hoot, sailed by Keisha Day and Amy Ellis, finished as the first all-girls crew while placing second overall behind Cheeky (Marshall Day and Leo Pirret).
Success continued at the Cherub Australian Championships, too.
Harden Up 3170 (Banjo Nicholson and Thomas Steenson) claimed the honours, while the club also snared third place, veterans champion, cadet champion (under-18), junior champion (18-21 years) and first female skipper.
Steenson admitted it was “humbling” to see Belmont 16s’ sailing community grow.
“In total, we had eight in the top 10 total standings, highlighting the amount of talent we have in that division (cherub),” she said.
“Our learn to sail Tackers program remains popular, continuing to sell out with participants transforming into their next level of junior sailing, while the introduction of our Junior Pelican initiative has also been well-received.
“Currently, our skiff fleet boasts the strongest numbers witnessed in many years.
“We have 33 registered and some of the best sailors on Lake Macquarie.
“So, we’re certainly in a good place.”
Steenson, who started sailing when she was eight, loves being a member of the Belmont 16s.
“I became actively involved in the club again when my eldest son took up the sport (ironically at the same age I did,” she said.
“Wanting to participate, I then began volunteering on rescue boats and in different roles.
“Now, I enjoy watching all three children and my husband sail at Belmont 16s.
“There are so many things I love about being the sailing manager, to be honest.
“Watching the progression and confidence build in the juniors as they grow and learn, seeing bonds and friendships between the youngsters form, and the fact there is a real community feel among our sailors and volunteers brings me joy and contentment.”
If you’re interested in taking part in the 16ft Skiff race this weekend, email Nadine Steenson at [email protected]
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