SPORTY SUSSEX
Sporty Sussex It’s time to get the feel good endorphins pumping again as we continue to celebrate sport in Sussex. Sara Whatley looks at badminton, sailing, rugby and ploughing this month
Badminton Bopping a shuttlecock across the net in a casual game on a summer’s eve is a sport I can definitely get on board with Often played in the back garden or on a beach, badminton can be a relaxed and casual game to enjoy with all the family. However, for those that want to take the sport a bit more seriously it can be played formally. A rectangular indoor court sees singles or doubles striking a shuttlecock with a racquet across a net. “Badminton is a hugely popular and exciting indoor sport, and with the majority of sports centres offering courts to clubs (for competitive club/league badminton) as well as more leisurely
Sailing Keen to leave dry land and start your sailing adventure? Try it all from high speed adrenaline fuelled boating to chugging along an idyllic canal There are many different styles of sailing to explore; from yachting, dinghies, motorboat cruising, powerboating, canal boating and speeding away on a personal watercraft. “Sailing is an exceptional sport,” said Kevin Headon, Commodore of Sussex Yacht Club. “There’s nothing quite like being out on the water,
casual badminton, it has become a very accessible sport for everyone,” said Mark Dummer, Chairman of Hassocks Badminton Club. There are numerous badminton clubs around Sussex for all ages and abilities to enjoy with a thriving following and many leagues in operation stretching across the county. “Historically we average about 35-40 members,” said Mark. “We’re recognised as being a very friendly and sociable club, offering a good standard club night alongside competitive league badminton. Last connecting with nature and taking advantage of the natural world. Not only does it bring a range of physical benefits – improving strength, agility and overall fitness – but there are also huge positives for mental wellbeing, as well as many social advantages.” Sussex is a great place to get into sailing with so many varied bodies of water to try out the different types of sailing on. There are plenty of reservoirs and lakes, rivers and canals and of course the wonderful coastline. Kevin went on to say, “It has been wonderful to see a growing
season we entered a total of 12 teams in the local leagues. Many of our members also represent the county at Masters level. We encourage players of a good standard who have a similar mindset as ours; to mix fun with competition and complement our welcoming vibe.” Like many sports clubs, joining a badminton club is more than just playing badminton. You will make a new circle of friends and gain a new level of fitness as well as confidence. Mark ended with a fun fact: “The fastest smash achieved in competition was clocked at 264.7 mph!” www.sussexbadminton.co.uk
appreciation of the outdoor environment over the past 18 months, with huge increases in people wanting to take up watersports such as sailing, with opportunities for people of all physical abilities and ages to get out on the water. Sailing is not a sport you should try alone, however, and it is important to try it out safely by joining a sailing club. This will ensure you are learning the ropes alongside experienced sailors whilst also reaping the benefits of the wider sporting and social opportunities that will enrich your life and gain you friends.” So, if your sea legs are feeling buoyant, grab a friend, a life vest and something that floats and enjoy the open water. www.sussexyachtclub.org.uk September 2021 | SUSSEX LIVING 113
