Sailing Experience for Alumni of Several BY Schools
On November 19, 2024, the Royal Bombay Yacht Club (RBYC) , in collaboration with the Rotary Club of Bombay, organized a memorable sailing experience for 35 alumni children from 6 Bhayishya Yaan schools. This initiative aimed to introduce these young minds to the joy of sailing, an experience that was not just recreational but also aspirational and educational. Few of the students have expressed interest in learning how to harness the elements of nature and lean how to sail.
The event began with a warm welcome for the children, with refreshments followed by a comprehensive safety briefing conducted by experienced sailors and volunteers at the RBYC. Emphasis was placed on understanding the basics of sailing, the importance of teamwork, and adhering to safety protocols. President Satyan Israni and Rtn Mehul Sampat had come to flag off the event for the kids (and Rtn Amee Tanna sailed with the alumni as well) in the presence of RBYC President Ramesh Venkat and Vice Commodore Viraf Hansotia who along with RCB Hon Sec Akhil Sanghi had planned the event in great detail.
The excitement among the children was palpable as they prepared to board the boats from the Gateway of India after putting on their Sailing caps. Ten boats, manned by skilled sailors such as Arjuna Awardee Homi Motivala, Veteran Bejon Madon, Bakhtiyar Vajifdar, Saif, Dinesh Navani, Neville Mistry and Unmesh Raote, set sail simultaneously, giving the children their first-ever experience of being on the open waters of the Mumbai Harbour. The highlight was that the RBYC Junior sailors (age 12 to 17) Freyan Driver, Aarya Raote , Luv Sakpal and Shivansh Pandya too helmed boats for alumni who are nearly the same age. For many, it was a moment of wonder as they felt the sea breeze, learned to navigate, and experienced the thrill of gliding across the waves purely harnessed by the power of wind. The picturesque views of the Mumbai coastline with a gorgeous sunset in the backdrop added to the magic of the day.
After the sailing session, the children returned to the RBYC, where they were treated to a “Safari” bag with books and goodies arranged by Rtn Laxmi Meneklal and snacks and refreshments at the RBYC Sailing room. This was a time for them to share their excitement, ask questions about sailing, and bond with their helms. The event concluded with smiles, laughter, and newfound aspirations among the participants.
This initiative not only gave these children an unforgettable day but also sparked dreams and possibilities of exploring opportunities beyond their everyday lives. The Royal Bombay Yacht Club and the Rotary Club of Bombay remain committed to creating such impactful experiences, bridging gaps, and inspiring the next generation.
This project underscored the power of community partnerships in transforming lives and highlighted how exposing children to unique activities can broaden their horizons and instill hope.
