Andrew Simpson Sailing Centre Opens In Portland

10 May 2014, 10:08

The Andrew Simpson Sailing Centre's been officially launched at the Weymouth and Portland National Sailing Academy - by his friends Sir Ben Ainslie and Iain Percy OBE.

They cut the ribbon on Friday may the 9th, a year since 'Bart' died in a training accident.

Peter Allam, Chief Executive of the Weymouth and Portland National Sailing Academy said:
 
“The Royal Yachting Association accredited centre will provide a focal point to remember Andrew Simpson’s outstanding achievements.

"Andrew was passionate about inspiring people of all ages to take up sailing and the ASSC represents a tremendous opportunity to help provide a pathway from beginner through to whatever level individuals may aspire to, from recreational sailor to Olympic hopeful”
 
Sir Ben Ainslie said:

“Today is a very poignant day, but also a really exciting one to be opening the Andrew Simpson Sailing Centre.

"I would like to say a huge thanks to the Trustees of the Foundation, for all the efforts they have put in over the last 12 months, especially Leah and Iain for their vision and leadership to get us to this point; and all the volunteers that have helped us. We are starting our activity, including subsidising sailing sessions for children, on a local level, but want to partner with clubs from around the country with similar objectives; and ultimately do that on a global scale.

"It’s fantastic to see what has been achieved in such a short space of time; and I’m sure the great man would be very proud.”