Ollie Fellows, 15 and George Fellows, 13, are being supported by 1610 under their FANS scheme

Ollie Fellows, 15 and George Fellows, 13, are being supported by 1610 under their FANS (Free Access to Facilities for National Sports People) scheme. 

1610, based in Somerset, provide sport and leisure facilities across the South West to help young people become active. At Dorchester Sports Centre, a swimming pool and fitness facility is provided, and the brothers have access to a range of activities. 

Ollie is part of this year’s Royal Yachting Association (RYA) Topper National Junior Squad, one of 24 sailors in his age group in the UK. He is hoping to gain a top five place later this year at the National Championships in North Wales in August. His brother George already represents the South West in the Topper sailing class. 

Training for sailing competitions can be exhausting and expensive for competitors and their families. 

Andrea Fellows, Ollie and George’s mum, said: “Sailing at a national level requires a great commitment from the boys physically, and so to have free access to Dorchester Sports Centre is a huge help, financially as well.” 

She added: “The boys can vary their training and try new things, such as the gym, and now Ollie is swimming regularly at the centre as well and enjoying water polo.”

The boys are managing to fit in their training whilst studying hard. Ollie is studying at the Thomas Hardye School in Dorchester, and George at Dorchester Middle School. 

Andrea explained that the RYA expect high standards of strength and fitness in their athletes. She said: “Sailing as a sport that requires upper body strength, stamina and fitness so regular training and body conditioning is essential for both boys. The boys have to be flexible, strong and mentally tough.”

1610 has nineteen leisure centres across the South West, supporting people gain and active body and mind. 

More information on 1610 can be found at www.1610.org.uk