A Sailors Life for Me!

I’ve had a great time the past couple of days out on the water with the Skippers, as both an observer to the PiXel and Opti groups and the occasional extra hand when things got crazy! It’s been a windy week, and the two groups did a great job keeping their cool even in hairy situations.

The PiXel group sailing Tuesday afternoon.

First, I spent a day helping out the PiXels - though it was only the second day of the session, the sailors did a great job and proved that they knew exactly what they were doing. The first drill they completed was to test basic skills and make sure the group would be comfortable in heavier breeze, on their own. After rigging their boats, instructors Alex and Andries sent them on a quick sail around a mark and back to make sure they got the basics. Of course it was a breeze for everyone, so we went the enthusiastic group out for more sailing, including a Follow-the-Leader drill to practice basic tacking, gybing, and steering skills. The sailors nailed it, and ended the day on a good note. One PiXel sailor said the conditions were slightly difficult because the breeze was puffy and inconsistent, but they did a great job handling it and I had a blast helping out!

Yesterday I spent time with the younger and less experienced Skipper group, the Optis, led by Holly and Brent. The breeze was up, and despite being a little intimidated by the heavier winds, the kids did an awesome job staying on track and practicing all their skills in some great conditions. A few capsizes were no problem for this positive and fun group of sailors, who seemed to be having a great time sailing even if they did spent a little time in the water rather than on it! Mostly this group practiced the basics, and a few drills to introduce them to racing. They were all smiles throughout the afternoon, and braved the heavy breeze with optimism!

Bailing out after a capsize - use those arm muscles!