The John Merricks Trust
Queen Mary Sailing Club (QMSC) has been honoured with a significant grant from The John Merricks Sailing Trust (JMST), an organization dedicated to commemorating the spirit and enthusiasm of Olympic sailor John Merricks. This generous grant has facilitated the purchase of RS21 keelboats, enabling QMSC to offer expanded opportunities for young sailors to experience and excel in keelboating.
QMSC was one of eight prestigious clubs selected for the JMST legacy awards, which aim to help young people achieve their potential through the sport of sailing and to perpetuate the enduring legacy of John Merricks. With this support, QMSC has established a centre of excellence for keelboating, building a fleet of six RS21 keelboats. This initiative is particularly notable as QMSC is one of the few inland water clubs with the infrastructure to support keelboats, offering excellent transport connections across the UK and the capability to host multiple activities on its expansive 700-acre water body, all within the M25.
At the core of QMSC's development plan is Youth Keelboating, focusing on individuals aged 16-25. The club has rolled out a variety of programs designed to introduce young people to the world of keelboat sailing and to nurture their skills and passion for the sport. Through affordable memberships and an array of activities, QMSC is committed to helping young adults grow their experience and competence in keelboating.
The JMST grant is a pivotal step in QMSC’s mission to foster a new generation of passionate, skilled keelboat sailors. This initiative not only honors the memory of John Merricks but also strengthens the community by providing accessible sailing opportunities for youth.
For more details, please email sailondon@queenmary.org.uk.