Despite cloudy weather, we've had some great sailing days this fall... particularly the MumFest sailing demonstration. Here you can see all three Javelins, skipperd and crewed by cadets, sailing wing-and-wing (a difficult point of sail) past New Bern landmark Persimmons Restaurant.
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The fleet drew a crowd to the railing at Union Point. Due to the wind direction, the fleet had to sail close-hauled almost directly alongside the jetty and then run downwind for the demonstration. The combination of quick, coordinated tacks in one direction, and gybes in the other, showed the cadets' high level of skill.
Well done, MumFest sailors!
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On another gloomy day, but with good winds, the NJROTC sailors practice their skills more. Here we see one of the experienced skippers with Coach Jackson learning how mainsail trim affects steering (in FJs and Javelins, the skipper both steers and trims the mainsheet).
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At this point in the program, we perform sailing drills in close quarters. Skilled boat-handling and knowledge of the right-of-way rules is essential.
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The Javelins are heavier and beamier than the FJs, which is why we call the FJs our 'sports cars.' But given the skill and determination to get the best performance, the Javelins can really move. Here we see an advanced cadet sailor hiking to control heeling while a beginner (although one with past sailing experience) skippers, driving the boat hard.
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We only have a few more sailing days this fall, the class is going well and most of the new sailors have already reached a level where they can pass the final sailing drills. And having a great time, too!
. posted by Assistant Sailing Coach Douglas King
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