Queenstown boy Sam Shaw (14) demonstrates his sailing
ability at the Wakatipu Yacht Club's first learn-to-sail
lesson of the season on Sunday. Photo by James Beech.
The first learn-to-sail lesson was held by the Wakatipu
Yacht Club on Sunday, but organisers say young people can still
get on board the programme.
Ten children aged 8 to 12 and with varying degrees of
experience on the water took part in the two-hour session.
Instructors Merv Aoake and David Stringer begin by teaching
the basics of sailing, according to the rules and regulations
of Yachting New Zealand.
The club, based on Kelvin Heights, runs the programme for six
to eight weeks and restarts in February.
John Stalker, club executive committee member and
co-organiser of the programme, said aspiring boat users need
only provide their own wetsuit and life jacket.
Newcomers are invited to have a go to see if they like the
activity then, if they do, pay $72 for both membership of the
club and entry into the programme.
"Learn-to-sail is open to anybody in the community to
encourage more people to sail, learn about the water,
increase membership of the club and have fun," Mr Stalker
said.
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