Pacific Northwest Area “L” & Division 4 Youth Sailing

We are in 2008 and our sailing season is just around the corner. There is a lot planned for this year.
Out here in the Northwest we have put together a plan for 2008. It builds on great work by very dedicated sailors. This year we have several events that are going to focus on getting the kids on the water in a bit of a different environment where they are the focus for the event. See attached Youth Letter by Laura Sullivan, a wonderful job of inviting our local young people out to sail this year. Next Post.

We hope to increase the level of youth participation in cat sailing, whether it is recreational, cruising or racing. We want to draw in a new group to go along with the existing youth sailors we have. It will begin with fun & familiarization, skills, then racing.

Our goal is to make it as easy for the kids to participate in sailing as we can. All of our events are free to the youth that are participating. And most of the costs so far are being covered by donations.

Here is a list of what we have planned

Potholes Warm Up, April 4-6 , the first outing for the kids. We are bringing 8 Waves and various other boats. No racing just fun on the water.
Hobie 101 & Youth Clinic, May 10 , planned as a racing skills clinic for the kids.
Summer Celebration, July 26 & 27 , Youth only regatta.
This regatta is a two-day event for the multi- hull sailing youth of the Pacific Northwest. You are invited to sail in any of the various skilled fleets available. There is a spot that is just right for you! H16s and Waves available.
Oktoberfest, September 27 & 28 , Youth Only Regatta.
Another regatta that is a two-day event for the multi- hull sailing youth of the Pacific Northwest. H16s and Waves available.

These are four events that there will not be adult racing at. We hope to grow a new crop of youth sailors not only from the dingy fleets, but from our families and friends.
Hopefully this is only a start.

Mike Hensel
Hobie Fleet 95, Div 4
US Sailing Area “L” Rep