Issue date
From January 7-9th, Charteris Bay Yacht Club welcomed 52 Optimist sailors of all ages and abilities to the annual Junior Sailing Camp. I went along to help out and see what was going on at the club for the first two days.
The two days threw a mixture of conditions with winds blowing 0-30 knots and most directions. But the sun continued to shine and warm weather was had for all.
Sailors were split into groups depending on their abilities, then assigned one or two coaches for the days. A full schedule of training both on and off the water was had for all, ranging from sailing to and around Quail Island, long sails up Lyttleton harbour and water fights.
Sailors with help from their coaches were able to improve their skills at boat handling, speed, starting, sail trim, tactics and the occasional capsize.
It was great to see so many new young coaches who just a couple of seasons ago were sailors at the same camp. Now it was their turn to give something back to CBYC where they had learned their skills at the junior level.
All the team at Charteris Bay did a fantastic job, special thanks to the organizing committee and volunteers as CBYC including Jeffery, Jenny, Nigel, Carol, Brenda. And all the coaches including Matt, Brett, Ali, Jayvee, Steve, Mike, Sam and anyone else I have missed.
This week I shall be going to the Auckland Eastern Beaches Camp and the Hamilton Opti Sail.
Next week I shall be heading to New Plymouth and Wellengton for sailing Camps.
If you have a coaching camp at your club or in your region, then I would like to hear about it. Who is coaching, sailors and abilities and how I can help out.
