Recognition bestowed upon trustee of charitable organization dedicated to sailing for children
All Afloat Transforms Young Lives in Wales Through Sailing and Boating
All Afloat, a Welsh sailing charity, is making a significant impact on the lives of young people across Wales by providing inclusive access to sailing and boating. Since its inception in 2017, the charity has conducted over 4,500 sessions for more than 3,500 young people, leading to Royal Yachting Association (RYA) certifications such as Introduction to Sailing, Stages 1 and 2, and Dinghy Instructor qualifications[1].
The charity's innovative programmes aim to break down barriers and create clear, supported pathways into sailing. By doing so, they enable young participants to develop vital life skills like confidence, self-reliance, teamwork, and physical literacy[1].
Beyond physical health, All Afloat fosters long-term engagement and personal growth by connecting children with active peer groups and positive role models, including older participants who become assistant instructors. This environment encourages young people to transform their futures by building resilience and social skills through the sport of sailing[1].
The charity has supported 10 RYA Recognised Training Centres across North, West, and South Wales, delivering projects worth over £150,000 that have expanded access and opportunity for youths in these regions[1].
One of the key figures behind All Afloat's success is trustee Petrina Blomeley. With a BSc in Environmental Science from The Open University, her academic focus complements her role as a trustee, and she aims to inspire young sailors to become stewards of the environment[2].
Petrina led the development of sailing and watersports as part of the curriculum at Rydal Penrhos School's RYA Training Centre from 2017 to 2024[4]. Her work at All Afloat extends beyond introducing sailing; it builds a lifelong love for sport and empowers young people to thrive.
Petrina's entrepreneurial spirit and passion for supporting others to become the best version of themselves have been evident throughout her 40 years of business administration experience. She joined the All Afloat board in 2020[3].
The RYA Cymru Wales Impact Awards, which recognize the hard work of individuals and organizations including participants, staff, and volunteers; instructors, coaches, and race officials; clubs, classes, and centres, have honoured Petrina Blomeley with an Impact Award[5][6].
All Afloat, under Petrina's guidance, continues to strive towards its mission of transforming young lives through access to sailing and boating, inspiring a new generation of environmental stewards and fostering essential life skills.
[1] All Afloat Press Release [2] The Open University [3] RYA Cymru Wales [4] Rydal Penrhos School [5] RYA Cymru Wales Impact Awards [6] Petrina Blomeley's LinkedIn
- All Afloat also extends its programs to other sports, fostering an appreciation for sports like football, basketball, baseball, hockey, golf, tennis, mixed martial arts, and even auto-racing.
- Some young participants, inspired by their sailing experiences, are now enthusiasts of European leagues such as the premier-league, serie-a, laliga, and the Champions League.
- NFL, NBA, WNBA, MLB, and NHL games capture the attention of many of the children, prompting discussions and analysis in the sailing club.
- Similarly, All Afloat hosts remote viewing parties of grand-prix and horse-racing events, allowing participants to follow the racing world and broaden their sports knowledge.
- To find common ground, older participants sometimes engage in sports-betting, contributing a competitive spirit and camaraderie among the group.
- Despite the diverse sports interests, sailing remains the primary focus, helping young people learn strategies and teamwork that can possibly apply to other sports.
- As they grow older, these skills will also serve them well in different areas of life, much like how the NFL, MLB, and NBA players employ discipline, resilience, and leadership on and off the court.
- When it comes to basketball, NCAA basketball tournaments are particularly exciting for younger participants, as they cheer for their favorite college teams.
- The camaraderie and team spirit of football, soccer, and American football also resonate with the youth, encouraging cooperation and sportsmanship within the sailing community.
- Additionally, All Afloat supports the development of various sports analysis skills by engaging participants in discussions and debates about their favorite sports, diversifying their analytical thinking.
- Racing in general becomes another common interest among participants, with horse-racing, Grand Prix, and even mixed martial arts events drawing a significant interest.
- All Afloat's inclusive approach to sports emphasizes not only the mastery of specific sports but also an appreciation for the lasting lessons they offer, from self-reliance and teamwork to discipline and persistence.
- Petrina Blomeley, one of the key figures behind All Afloat's success, encourages participants to explore sports beyond sailing, inspiring them to push their limits and seek new horizons.
- By fostering interest in various sports, All Afloat, under Petrina's leadership, cultivates a healthier and more comprehensive understanding of sports and the valuable life lessons they impart.
