Sailing lessons offered
Set sail — Gemma Watts and Jacqueline Scott take sailing lessons in the new Bug boats at the South Okanagan Sailing Association.
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Updated: July 30, 2009 7:31 AM
Children and adults will be able to set sail on Okanagan Lake this summer.
The South Okanagan Sailing Association is offering sailing lessons in its new fleet of four small Bug boats, said lesson director Sandra Chalmers. She said the new boats are made from molded plastic and are fairly heavy.
“They’re easy for kids to sail because they just have the mainsheet.”
Chalmers said 12 and 13 year olds can sail the small boats just as easily as adults. The lesson program gives would-be sailors the basic skills in a week, and runs until the end of summer. She noted novices will learn how to tie knots, sail the boats, flip them over and right them again.
“They wear a lifejacket all the time. Even if they’re not terribly confident on the water, there is always a coach there.”
Chalmers said coaches are certified by the Canadian Yachting Association, and all have lifesaving and first aid training. She noted the response to the courses has been positive.
“We’ve run about 12 courses so far and they’ve been fairly good.”
Chalmers said the lessons involve a summer camp type atmosphere, with sail races and rope tying contests. Lessons take place in three-hour sessions from Monday to Friday, and are open to children as young as eight years old. Those seeking more information can contact Chalmers at 250-494-7232.
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