Pirates of the River Tees
Castlegate Quay Watersports Centre on the River Tees was the venue for the inaugural Stockton schools sailing Regatta. The event which was sponsored by Stockton on Tees PCT was the grand finale of the
Sporting Start programme which funded Stockton secondary schools to receive 6 weeks free Watersports instruction at Castlegate Quay.
Pupils from All Saints,St Patrick’s and Bishopsgarth schools braved the elements to take part in a singles, doubles and an exciting team relay race to discover the next budding Ben Ainslie or Ellen McCarthy.
In an extremely tense competition with the each school occupying first place at sometime during the competition the judges after several count backs declared Bishopsgarth School the inaugural winners of the Stockton Regatta
Allan McDermott from Tees Active said “This has been a fantastic event which everybody who has taken part has thoroughly enjoyed. I would like to thank Stockton TPCT whose support has enabled these teenagers to experience sailing and also congratulate Chris, Gary, Richard and RYA Onboard Development Officer Micky Early on thier organisation of this superb event”
Phillip Green from Bishopsgarth said “These sessions have given us the opportunity to try sailing and I have really enjoyed being outdoors. I feel I have really bonded with my fellow classmates through the team events. I definitely want to continue sailing and build on the skills I have learnt”
Haydon Jones from St Patrick’s had the last word when he added” It’s my birthday today and its been a great way to spend a day on the water! I have had so much fun and the competition is really tense”
If you are interested in Watersports contact Castlegate Quay on 01642 528689 or visit teesactivelimited.co.uk