It was a fantastic day to be on the water, with high tide, a gentle warm breeze and plenty of sunshine, to encourage everyone to have fun out sailing. Getting the dinghies ready to go on the water was much quicker this week, with lots more people helping, and learning how to do it! Next time will be even quicker so there is more sailing time. Ten children turned up and we had four Optimists, one "P" class, and one Starling out. The first drill was to launch safely, sail out from the slipway and then return, by bringing the dinghy to a stop, head to wind and alongside the ramp. Once each dinghy had perfected this drill, they were allowed to go and sail/race between two laid, orange buoys. Corin had fun sailing his own "P" class dinghy and enjoyed the better turn of speed, from this slightly higher tech dinghy. His brother, Rory, was given the honor of taking the club Starling out for its first outing, and he looked delighted with its turn of speed, and ease of handling. This will be the boat to sail in the future. Emma also had a turn in the Starling and she was last out on the water and would have carried on much longer if given the chance I'm sure. We had two new recruits with Owen and Georgia taking to the water with the Junior Sailing Programme for there first session learning how to sail. Judging by their smiling faces they'll be back, and certainly Owen's younger sister wants to join in too! Mackenzie, Alice and Devon all had a go solo in the Optimists, although Alice and Mackenzie went two up for most of the session, and heeded my warning not to distract each other by talking all the time. Jack and I squeezed into Floating Toy, which looked more like a Sinking Toy with our combined weight. Even with knee pads, an Opti is not adult friendly, my knees are still creaking! At the debrief, which everyone attended, it was great to give positive feedback on everything that had happened, both on and off the water. The forthcoming trip to Motuihe Island has had to be postponed due to a couple of organizational problems. A new date will be offered ASAP. Watch this space! Many thanks to Gary who keeps all the dinghies afloat and shipshape, Denise who is so organized and meticulous, Stuart who runs the Safety Boat with ease and cheerfulness and Andy for patiently instructing on the water, as well as Cathrin who did instant research about camping on Motuihe! It is wonderful to see more club members getting involved in the Junior Sailing, and all the rewards that come with it. Cheers, Gill |
Junior Sailing >