Construction industry builds confidence on the water

Construction industry builds confidence on the water

Companies in the construction and property industries who take part in the annual Little Britain Challenge Cup are playing a role in helping to break down barriers to sailing for people with disabilities on the Isle of Wight.  Cowes Sailability Club receives an annual donation from the proceeds of this event, which is used to enable disabled people to build their confidence and learn new skills in accessible, water-based activities. 

Jenny Girvin-Baker has a rare joint condition that impacts her mobility and stability.  She acknowledges that it can be hard for disabled people to find the courage to try new things at first.  She explains: ‘When my health deteriorated, I lost my confidence, but the volunteers at Cowes Sailability Club were so welcoming and supportive. Now, at the Monday afternoon sailing and boating sessions, the volunteers encourage me to do whatever I feel able to do.  I am much more confident now and when I get home on Mondays, I’m just buzzing!’

Cowes Sailability Club is one of five sailing-related charities supported by the organisers of Little Britain.  In the regatta, teams representing some of the most prestigious companies in the property and construction industries compete in races over two days, in large yachts, typically between 35 and 45ft in length. 

Robert Klaschka, Director and Chairperson of the Little Britain Challenge Cup, commented: “The Little Britain Challenge Cup is proud to continue to support Cowes Sailability Club’s important work making sailing more accessible to disabled people. The event has a long-standing tradition of supporting smaller charities that provide important services, making sailing accessible to people who otherwise would not have the opportunity to enjoy the unique experience that our teams have on the water.”

Cowes Sailability Club received £500 from the proceeds of Little Britain 2025, which will be used to help cover the running costs for the club’s three Drascombe Longboats, small sailing boats that are ideal for people with limited mobility or poor vision.  Raised by the participants of the regatta, the money will, in particular, pay for mooring fees. 

“We are incredibly grateful to the organisers of Little Britain—and all of the participants of this regatta—for their support over many years,” says Trish Rooke, Fundraising Officer of Cowes Sailability Club.  “It is a privilege to be one of the charities supported by such a prestigious event.  The donations we receive help us to make disabled people feel less marginalised in society, access exciting new opportunities and make friends.”

The next Little Britain Challenge Cup will take place on 11-12 September 2026.  Find out more at: www.littlebritain.co.uk.

Are you organising a charitable event in 2026?
Would you like to support Cowes Sailability Club at that event? 
Contact us at fundraising@cowessailability.co.uk to find out how we can work together.