On Saturday 6th, there was an organised training event focusing on sailing the Dart 16 catamarans. Three young sailors arrived, plus Dan Smith who applied his skills as an experienced cat sailor to helm and instruct during the time afloat.
The training stated with a briefing, and some on shore instruction on the rigging of and basic guidelines of how to sail a catamaran, additionally how to use a trapeze.
Two Dart 16’s were launched, and with Miss Deben in close support, we headed for the the sail area of the Dip, and with F3-4 winds to keep the pace, the crews pulled the sails in, and we were able to witness, and support for some two hours, the sight of these small catamarans sailing at speed and in control in the bay, with obvious delight from the crews.
Returning to the shore, and following a short debrief, one of the students completed a club membership application to rejoin the club, and another student who having been taught how to trapeze that day, then used her skills to crew during the complete long distance race the following day, in somewhat testing conditions.
As always, thanks to Andy Robinson who organised the event, and well done to Victoria, Orla, and Luke who all demonstrated a very high level of competence with the Dart 16’s. In summary, the club has gained a new club member, plus three young sailors who understand how to sail the club catamarans.
