Sophie hits the water

Thursday 18th of July 2019

It’s been all about feeling the wind in her hair as Sophie, who is supported by Avenues in Kent, has recently been taking sailing lessons as part of Wealden Sailability club, an initiative run by the Royal Yachting Association.

Sophie surprised members of the club and volunteers by very quickly learning to single-handedly sail a small adapted yacht.

“It was fantastic to see Sophie sailing on her own” said Steve Thomas, one of the trustees of Sailability “I think it gives a great sense of independence”.

Avenues staff delightedly cheered Sophie on as Sophie sailed past but are well aware of her talents; “She’s very intelligent and very motivated” said Avenues Service Manager Penny Snell.

According to Assistant Service Manager Graham Spratt Sophie’s “confidence has grown” but it’s the social aspect that really engages her; “She’s got a big personality. When she’s out on the water she wants to say hello to everyone she goes past. She’s met people here that she sees outside sailing, so that’s good. She wants to see the people here more than the sailing really but she knows that sailing keeps her calm…”.

See below to watch Sophie’s sailing adventure