JOG aims to bridge gap between dinghy and keelboat racing
JOG (Junior Offshore Group) has launched a new youth programme: Generation JOG, which aims to support and promote the next generation of sailors, with a view to bridging the gap between youth dinghy sailing and offshore keelboat racing. It is geared towards those aged 25 years old and under who are either new or existing members.
With finances being one of the main obstacles to sailing for younger generations, the programme is being supported by some of JOG’s sponsors. Kit will be awarded throughout the season based on members’ achievements. Crewsaver is the first sponsor to come onboard and has given life jackets and gloves to be handed out throughout the rest of this year.
Generation JOG’s other initiatives include giving preferential listings on JOG connect, its crew finder site, introducing a new Generation JOG class for all those boats with programme members on board, regular Zoom meet-ups with the occasional guest appearance from a prominent sailor and free membership for the first 18 months.
“The future of our club and many clubs out there lies in the hands of the up and coming generations,” says Stuart Lawrence, JOG’s vice captain. “We want to make sure we are offering the easiest, possible route to participation for those younger than us and help our club flourish in decades to come.”
