After the crazy wind yesterday we had a PERFECT day today! All of our sailors had the opportunity to get back on the water and feel the Bass River breeze in their sails. The beginner opti sailors focused on parts of the boat, steering and most of all "TILLER TOWARDS TROUBLE!" This is a common phrase you will hear with the beginner class. Parents, ask your beginner about the parts of the boat, there's no doubt in my mind that you will be impressed with their knowledge!
Brooke's intermediate opti's set sail for their first sail in their new boats. They focused on sailing through the mooring field while using their tiller extension. You may have heard them singing into their tiller extension for practice! They also discussed the value of teamwork.
Teamwork is a big part of intermediate opti as the students are on their own (Yes, that's right Mom and Dad, it's your child's responsibility to rig their boat!)
The 420 beginner class led by Ryan Daly and Mildred worked on the basics of rigging and points of sail. They were timid leaving the dock but had very confident dock landings upon their return. I am excited to watch the progression of this class throughout the summer. There is no doubt in my mind that they will be dominating in 420's before we know it.
The intermediate 420 class led by D.J. and Chris Warner reviewed rigging and boat handling. With many confident sailors returning to this class, they kept calm when chaos ensued at the dock. They led by example and I'm sure they will be great role-models for the beginners.
As the afternoon approached, the 420 and opti race teams were excited to show their skills on the water for their first day of try-outs. Mildred, Ali and Patrick hosted 4 races and had a confident feel for their sailors. Brooke and DJ held their opti races in the river and only had a few capsizes!While the race teams were getting to work on the course, Ryan worked with the advanced opti sailors for safety checks and dock landings. They looked great and I'm sure they will be sailing out to Nantucket Sound before we know it!
The deadline for New Bedford Jr. Regatta registration is Thursday, July 1st. Opti parents, if you are interested in attending NBJR this year, please let Meghan know by Friday so we can arrange for Coach Brooke to be there.
Don't forget that Thursday and Friday are our first theme days! Dress up in red, white and blue!
