Well, isn't life interesting. Just as we are getting ready to launch the Fall 2010 sailing classes, we have a hurricane knocking on the door. You non-sailors may not follow this kind of thing closely, or may dismiss it as hype from the weather channel; but those of us who take care of boats (our own, or the NJROTC fleet) have to be prepared. The threat is very real, it doesn't take much severe weather to knock the boats around (link), and the high water brought in by a surge could carry the boats far away.
But let's talk about more cheerful things. We have a schedule, this coming Thursday (Sep 2) will not be a sailing day BUT it will be a training day. Qualified cadets will have a chance to show their skills, newcomers will have a chance to see what they're getting into. The weather may prevent bringing an FJ to the school. If possible, we will have a hands-on session with a real boat.
From now on, count on Monday to be sailing days (except for holidays). We will not sail on Monday Sep 6, but there is a make-up session scheduled for Thursday Sep 9.
The following Monday Sep 13, we will bring an FJ to the YMCA pool for capsize drill & swim tests. Bring a swim suit and a towel!
(photo of capsize drill on 12 Apr 2010)
Monday Sep 20 will be a sailing day. And so on, etc etc! Remember that attendance is counted, we have some sailors from spring who missed too many days to gain their skipper's qualification... Don't let it happen to you this fall!
For new sailors- as you can probably guess from the pictures, and from the stories told by the experienced cadet sailors, this program is a LOT of fun. It's also a lot of work, and the safety precautions are no joke. You will be expected to study, there are written tests, and f
ollowing the instructions of the coaches is not optional. Sailing is not for everybody.For you returning sailors, expecially the qualified skippers who are candidates for the aiguillette...
posted by Assistant Coach Doug King
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