David Bennett, Vice Commodore

Hello, my name is David Bennett, and I serve as the current Vice Commodore of the Sailing Club. Having grown up around water, I began kayaking and sailing at the age of four or five, gaining experience with sailing dinghies, sailing yachts, kayaks, canal barges and anything that floats!

After several years break from sailing, in 2021 I found the club and decided to try and improve my sailing skills, plus start paddle boarding in 2024. In my role as Vice Commodore, I oversee land-based activities and lead the organisation of events such as the Hitchin Road Show, Open Day, and the Fun day, with the support of members.

I also collaborate with committee members on website improvements and work closely with the Social Secretary to ensure that summer events, such as barbecues run smoothly. In addition, I support the successful management of our club merchandise for which Alex has done, and continues to do an amazing job. Additionally, I’m actively involved in Wednesday evening social sailing and racing and very much enjoy this relaxed and informal sessions. During the summer of 2025 I embarked on obtaining my PB2 qualification. I’m excited for next year and have some interesting ideas for events with participation of members being key. I’ve recently taken the “RYA Green Blue boating pledge” and excited to share with the club as this is developes in the next few months.

Furthermore, I liaise with the RYA to report data and participate in the yearly affiliation process, ensuring that we meet all necessary standards and stay up-to-date with RYA requirements and procedures.

Outside of the club, I enjoy sea kayaking and river kayaking and working on my YouTube channel (TREKKING WITH DAVID). I also enjoy travelling and catching up with friends in the USA and Canada.

I firmly believe that the most successful organisations are those with a diverse and varied membership, continually evolving by drawing on experience and fresh ideas to create an enjoyable environment and deliver the best possible club.

The support I’ve received from members over the past few years has been invaluable, I’ve created new friendships and this has all driven me to improve my sailing skills, build greater self-confidence and encourage others to take up sailing.

#RYA #RYAGreenBlue #surfersagainstsewerage
#TrekkingwithDavid