Business Details
50+ Years
experience
Your Premier Sailing Destination in Farnham
Frensham Pond Sailing Club is an inclusive, community-focused organisation established in 1953, dedicated to promoting sailing for all ages and abilities. Based on the Surrey/Hampshire border at Frensham Great Pond, we offer structured youth development pathways, accessible Sailability programs for individuals with disabilities, and competitive racing opportunities across diverse boat classes. Our RYA-accredited training centre delivers year-round courses for beginners to advanced sailors, supported by a team of qualified instructors.With over 1,000 members, we maintain a strong tradition of hosting national and international sailing events while fostering a welcoming environment for casual cruising. Our facilities include modern changing areas, accessible amenities, and a fleet of training boats, reflecting our commitment to inclusivity and excellence in sailing education. The clubs historical ties to the local community and its reputation for high-standard racing and training programs underscore our enduring legacy in British sailing.
Services
Sailing Courses
Youth Racing
Sailability Programs
Competitive Racing
Powerboat Training
First Aid Courses
Boat Hire
Event Hosting
Instructor Training
Community Outreach
Details
- Year established: 1953
Highlights and features
- We are an RYA-recognised Training Centre with 70+ years of sailing instruction experience.
- We offer tailored programs for disabled sailors through our award-winning Sailability initiative.
- Our youth coaching has produced multiple national and international championship winners.
- We host prestigious open meetings attracting Olympic-standard competitors.
- We maintain the UK's largest Cadet fleet with 35 boats and 70 young sailors.
Associations and certifications
- Royal Yachting Association (RYA)
What people say
Excellent youth coaching
Welcoming atmosphere
Top-class racing events
Fantastic Sailability support
Beautiful location
Services
Sailing Courses
Our RYA-certified instructors deliver comprehensive sailing courses for all skill levels. Beginners start with fundamental techniques before progressing to advanced racing strategies. Courses include hands-on practice with Optimists, Toppers, and RS Zests, ensuring safe, structured learning environments.
Youth Racing
Structured coaching programs develop young talent from age 8 through Cadet, RS Tera, and ILCA classes. Weekly training sessions and national competitions build technical skills and sportsmanship. Our graduates regularly join RYA national squads and international championships.
Sailability Programs
Specialised instruction enables individuals with disabilities to sail Hansa 2.3, Laser Stratos, and 2.4mR keelboats. Certified instructors provide one-to-one support using accessible facilities. Regular regattas and social sailing events promote inclusion and confidence-building.
Competitive Racing
Year-round racing includes handicap, one-design, and pursuit formats across 12+ boat classes. Weekly club races and annual open meetings attract national champions. Event organisation follows strict safety protocols with professional race management teams overseeing competitions.
Powerboat Training
RYA Powerboat Level 2 courses teach handling, navigation, and safety procedures. Practical sessions cover launching, berthing, and emergency protocols. Qualified instructors use modern powerboats to prepare students for independent operation and instructor certification pathways.
People
Kate Whyatt
Commodore
Kate Whyatt leads Frensham Pond Sailing Club as Commodore, overseeing strategic direction and event organisation. With decades of sailing experience, she champions inclusivity and competitive excellence across all club activities.
Sam Ford
Chief Instructor
Sam Ford manages the RYA Training Centre, delivering sailing and powerboat courses. His expertise includes youth development and instructor training, supported by experience from French multi-sport activity centres and extensive competitive sailing achievements.
Alex Mills
Youth Co-ordinator
Alex Mills oversees youth sailing programs, developing training pathways from beginners to championship levels. He manages Saturday coaching sessions and summer/winter racing programs for Cadet, RS Tera, and ILCA classes.
Kate Hedley
Vice-Commodore
Kate Hedley supports club operations as Vice-Commodore, focusing on member engagement and facility improvements. Her leadership helps maintain Frensham's reputation for hosting high-standard sailing events and community initiatives.
Meg Pascoe
RYA Training Principal
Meg Pascoe ensures training program compliance with RYA standards. She coordinates instructor certifications and course delivery, maintaining the club's status as a leading regional sailing education provider with international recognition.
Questions
What sailing courses do you offer for beginners?
We provide RYA Stage 1-2 courses for ages 8+ using Optimists and Toppers. Courses run weekends and school holidays with qualified instructors ensuring safe, progressive learning experiences.
How can disabled sailors participate?
Our Sailability program offers adapted Hansa 2.3 and Laser Stratos boats with one-to-one instructor support. Accessible facilities and tailored sessions ensure inclusive sailing opportunities for all abilities.
What youth racing opportunities exist?
Weekly Cadet, RS Tera, and ILCA coaching sessions prepare juniors for national competitions. Our youth teams regularly compete in RYA championships with pathways to Olympic-class sailing.
Can I join without owning a boat?
Yes, our membership includes boat hire options for training and racing. Full members may access berthing facilities subject to availability, with preferential rates for club-owned fleets.
What racing events do you host?
Annual open meetings include GP14, Enterprise, and RS Tera championships. Weekly handicap and one-design races run year-round, with Wednesday evening summer series attracting regional competitors.
How do I book training courses?
Visit our website's booking portal to select available dates for sailing, powerboat, or first aid courses. Contact the training team for course recommendations based on experience level.