Learn to Sail

Notes for parents of prospective participants.

The French Bay Yacht Club endeavours to run a Learn to Sail Coaching Programme for enthusiastic local children. This is operated by club members and parents on a voluntary basis. This is not a commercial operation or a Sailing School. Children attending this programme remain the responsibility of their parents or caregivers.

We expect the active involvement of a parent or caregiver with every child. The objective of the programme is to train children to sail so that they can join the junior racing fleet.

We have available for use a fleet of plastic Optimist yachts which are ideal for learners.

To join this Programme you must make an application. There is no charge for the coaching.

Participants must be members of the yacht club and pay daily sailing fees (like everyone else).

Learning to sail can be a challenging activity. The Programme is restricted to children 10 years or over. Though we endeavour to not put them in situations they will be unhappy about, if a child is frightened by the experience it can put them off sailing for many years.

The meeting time for coaching is on FBYC Calendar

Safety

The basic safety equipment participants will need is suitable footwear, a hat and sunscreen. Suitable warm and wind proof clothing, such as thermals under a wetsuit, with a woollen jumper and spray jacket, may also be required on cold days. Lifejackets are provided – although you may prefer to bring your own.

Swimming

To join the learn to sail programme your child must be able to swim. As part of the course they will be expected to swim (by any means) at least 50 metres, dressed for sailing and with a buoyancy vest on. They will also learn to capsize and right a boat in deep water.

There are a limited number of places available. We are sorry, but we cannot guarantee that we can accommodate all applicants. If your child is enrolled in the course we would like them to attend on a regular basis.

At the beginning and end of the day they and their parent/s are also expected to rig/derig the boats, clean them and assist with stowing them.

For further information contact:

Peter Channings. Ph 816-8030 email: pchannings@xtra.co.nz

Learn to Sail Coordinator

or ask a committee member