Brighstone Pavilion is one of three projects to recieve funding.
THREE Island sports clubs are facing a brighter future thanks to 'Olympic legacy’ funding from Sport England.
Following news of the same funding to Seagrove Pavilion last week, Cowes Corinthian Yacht Club, Shanklin Rowing Club and Brighstone Sports Pavilion are receiving more than £130,000 from the Inspired Facilities Fund, money which aims to bring the legacy of last year’s Olympics to grassroots sport by helping clubs make improvements.
Cowes Corinthian has been given £49,999 to help disabled sailors with keelboat racing training.
The money will pay for new toilet, shower and changing facilities, as well as safer decking of its apron for storing and launching keelboats. These improvements will be made in time for the 2013 season so Paralympic events and international regattas can be held, and will allow integration with the Sailability activities the club already runs.
Vice commodore Andy Cassell, said: "It was only when I competed for a Paralympic gold medal in Atlanta in 1996 that I realised there were very few people with disabilities involved in integrated racing. This funding gives us an opportunity not just to support Paralympic medal hopes for 2016 and beyond, but also to encourage greater integration of able-bodied and disabled sailors."
Receiving £50,000 to construct a new boathouse and convert their old boathouse into a gym, is Shanklin Rowing Club.
The club also plans to create disabled access and increase ladies’ changing facilities as well as a range of other internal improvements, so it can be used by members and by other groups within the community. The balance of funding is being supported by Shanklin Rotary Club and other sponsorship and fundraising efforts.
Club chairman John Forrest said: "We are delighted to have secured this essential funding towards our extensive club improvement programme.
"We have a long way to go before the project is completed but we have an enthusiastic membership who will ensure its success."
Meanwhile, Brighstone Sports Pavilion will receive just over £31,000, paying for the venue’s first major refurbishment since it was built more than 40 years ago.
The pavilion, at Brighstone Recreation Ground, is used by village football, cricket and tennis clubs throughout the year.
The improvements include double-glazed windows and doors, a new flat roof, new shower system with larger hot water tank, improved disabled access and redecorating throughout.
Brighstone Parish Council chairman Elizabeth Bright said: "This will help create a sustainable facility, of benefit to all who participate in sport in Brighstone, and we expect it will attract sports people and teams to the village. It’s great to be part of creating the 2012 Olympic legacy"
Reporter: sport@iwcpmail.co.uk