By Peter Irving, Form 2E.
There are many kind of dinghies in this country, but the one I will be dealing with is the National 12. This boat is 12' long and 6' wide, it has a boom, centre plate, and many more accessories. A good, new, National would cost between £300-400, but an old one can cost as little as £60. I sail on the river, but many people sail on reservoirs, gravel pits and on the sea.
To join a club is a very good idea, and most clubs have their own races during the weekend and
you can settle down to a Coke in the evening. I shall not tell you how to sail a boat, because
if you do take up sailing as a hobby, you will learn in good time. ( I ) have been sailing for
nearly two years, and take it from me, it's great fun and it gives you a chance to meet other
people. It is no use trying to learn the art of sailing if you are not going to be at your
club very often, therefore, talk to your parents about it and I would be only too pleased to
help you with any questions. If you want to join a club, I could perhaps be able to enroll
you at Staines Sailing Club, which is on the River Thames, where I sail.