Sailing Education Adventures

In the last days of March, twelve SEA members participated in a racing class taught by our own Frank Lawler.  The class consisted of 4 hours classroom time covering tactics, strategy and racing rules, and an additional 2 hours on the water to practice racing starts.

Sunday, March 29 was a gorgeous day on the bay.  And while it started off with light flukey winds, it quickly settled into a light but steady southerly breeze.  The students split up onto four boats provided by SEA members - 3 Santana 22's and a Ranger 23.  Each student got an opportunity to take the helm for four starts, while the boat's owner gave direction when needed or requested.

After each start was completed, the 5-minute count-down recommenced and the boats circled back to approach the line again.  It was a lively day, with lots of opportunities to practice tactics and boat handling in close quarters.  And while "Kelly Shawn" made it across the line first on nearly every start, we all had a great time and learned a lot!

Thanks to members John Paul Watts and Mark Miglio who played committee boat (and had to set up the start line multiple times early in the day due to flukey winds).  And thanks to members Sean Canavan, Frank Lawler, Jennifer McKenna, and Leah Pepe for graciously providing the use of their boats!