A GROUNDBREAKING new windsurfing centre will officially open on Portland next Saturday.
World Champion RS-X sailor and Weymouth local Nick Dempsey will be on hand to cut the ribbon when the £75,000 to £100,000 facility opens its doors for the first time.
The Official Test Centre (OTC) has operated at Osprey Quay for several months out of storage facilities, while it waited for the go-ahead from council planners to site a temporary building there.
OTC is a British company that has operated successfully out in Tenerife and has now invested in a similar enterprise in the borough.
Its unique concept is to stock all the major brands to enable its clients to test and compare the kit, rather than be sponsored by one particular brand.
The new centre at the Weymouth & Portland National Sailing Academy, also aims to provide a social hub to showcase the sport and access to windsurfing for all.
It runs weekly Team 15 club nights for youngsters to enjoy windsurfing at a discounted rate and a similar scheme for adults.
At the launch event, there will be free windsurfing taster sessions, which must be booked in advanced, and discounted equipment rental for the day.
OTC managing director Tris Best said: “It has taken a lot longer than we had hoped, but at last we are pleased to announce that OTC UK will officially be open for business.
“The OTC is based around the unique concept of stocking the latest boards and sails of all the major brands so that our clients can test and compare them for themselves.
“With all the feedback we have received to date from Tenerife, we are confident that the system works and that it offers a vital extra resource in the windsurfing world.”
He added: “The aim of the UK centre is to go one step further by providing a full, progressive centre with access to windsurfing for all, from the complete beginner to the pro windsurfer.”
The OTC UK opening will take place at 11am and all are welcome to get involved.
To book a free taster session, or to find out more, call 0121 288 9965 or email info@otc-windsurf.com
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