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Sailing School
The WDYC Sailing Program is designed to meet the needs of all of those (young and old) that have the desire to sail, enhance their sailing skills to a new level and to enjoy the fun, competition, friendship and camaraderie that comes from belonging to one of the finest sailing programs on Cape Cod.
For further information, contact the WDYC Sailing School at 508-760-9933 or contact the West Dennis Yacht Club at 508-398-9757 or sailingdirector@wdyc.org.
Mission Statement: The West Dennis Yacht Club Junior & Adult Sailing Program seeks to instill in its students the joys and skills of sailing by providing quality instruction, information, safety and encouragement at all levels. Students who complete all levels of the program will understand the fundamentals of sailing theory, demonstrate proficiency in handling a small sailboat in various conditions including the fun of racing and be aware of the safety issues surrounding boating.
Classes: The sailing program has many different classes suited for each age and ability level. If you are unsure which class is best for your child, please speak with one of the instructors.
Click to download a copy of the 2008 Sailing Brochure, 2008 Sailing School Information and Registration packet, 2008 Parent Handbook, Medical Form, or Adult Sailing Information packet.
Program Overview:
The West Dennis Sailing Program offers a variety of sailing
classes. There are classes designed for all age ranges and abilities. The
program uses mainly Optimist dinghies, Club 420’s, and Capri’s for instructions. The program’s
main goals are threefold. The first, and most important, that we provide a SAFE
environment to help students abilities grow unhindered by fear. In order to
provide this safe environment, the club hires excellent veteran instructors who
have demonstrated this quality. Our second goal is that students continue to
improve their abilities throughout the summer, and be assessed on selected
criteria that demonstrate their growth. No program would be complete without our
last goal (the most important to the students), which is having FUN!!! In order
to accomplish this goal, the program uses interactive games that help reinforce
the objectives being taught. As a community
based program, it's important that we provide the best quality instruction, at
an affordable cost, in order to make a memorable experience for everyone. Adult lessons
are also available for all levels.
Class Descriptions:
WDYC Pre Sailor:
Offers children ages 5 to 8 a well-rounded experience that emphasizes
safety, fun, and a love of sailing. Sailors are taught by professional
instructors and longtime sailing enthusiasts. WDYC Pre Sailor maintains a
low ratio of sailors to instructors, which will enhance your child's
learning and development. Pre Sailor session is limited to 10 students.
(Includes lunch)
Beginner Opti:
This class is designed for children between the ages of 5 and 12. This is
an introductory class that seeks to get them comfortable with boats and
terminology. They will utilize various boats ranging from Knockabouts to
Prams. Seamanship and learning based games are strongly stressed.
Intermediate
Opti:
For children at least 9 years old who will sail Optimists. This class is
where they learn the basics to sailing. Becoming comfortable with
skippering, crewing, knot tying, rigging, basic rules of ways and safety are
just some of what will be taught. (Must own an
Opti)
Opti Advanced:
This course builds on what sailors have learned in the Intermediate Optimist
group, and will enhance their skills using the Optimist to become more
comfortable sailors. (Must own an Opti)
420 Beginner:
For older children at least 12 years old who will sail mainly 420s. This
class will cover the basics to sailing along with skippering, crewing, knot
tying, rigging, basic rules of ways, and safety.
420 Int.:
This
course builds on what sailors have learned in the Optimist groups and 420
Beginner group. Sailors will sharpen their skills with advanced drills and
enhance their knowledge of right of way rules, spinnaker/trapeze, and
navigation.
Race Team B:
This class is offered in either the Optimist or 420. This is where sailors
sharpen their boat handling and are introduced to racing tactics. Here they
will learn the basics of racing and improve their knowledge of racing rules.
Race Team A:
This class is offered in either the Optimist or 420. Sailors will be
assigned to the WDYC Race Team A according to ability. Entrance into this
level is only per the sailing director. Sailors must sign up for Race Team B
Adult Basic Night:
This is for the older sailor, where they will learn the basics to sailing
420’s and Capri’s. They will become comfortable with all the components
basic to sailing. |