GHYC Youth Sailing Programme

Published 14:32 on 4 Jul 2020

We have had to contend with a few interruptions to our original Youth Sailing Programme of

late, but now we are really back on track and have just completed two weekly sessions of

teaching students of the Whangaparaoa College Sailing Club the basics of keel-boat sailing.

The course consists of four one and a half hour sessions in theory and will end in a practical

session on a Gulf harbour Yacht Club member's boat.

The theory sessions especially cover how to be safe on a boat as it's recognised that

someone who has no boating experience can be their own greatest hazard! Other subjects

covered include how to deal with emergencies, parts of the boat, its rigging and sails, how

sails work, rope work, Rules of the Road, boat handling, the marine environment, and a little

bit of coastal navigation.

The aim of the course is to introduce students to the basic skills necessary to keep them and

other crew members safe while gaining an understanding of how and why boats are sailed.

It is hoped that it will also introduce them to the many and varied jobs that are available

within the very exciting marine industry, or just how to enjoy our wonderful marine

environment.

The course is being run by our Vice Commodore Diane Lindsay and committee member Mike

Pignéguy who are also keen to hear from members who would be willing to give these very

keen 15 + year old students a chance to experience the joy of sailing.

Last updated 09:19 on 20 February 2024