Quick-Stop Rescue
All sailors must know how to react quickly to a crew overboard situation. The hallmark of the Quick-Stop Rescue method is the immediate reduction of boat speed by turning in a direction to windward and thereafter maneuvering at modest speed, remaining near the PIW. This rescue requires these steps: 1) As soon as a crew…Read More
Start Windsurfing Right: Understanding Wind
Wind speed and direction never stay the same - they are constantly changing. While these changes are often small and subtle, they can be substantial. You will, with experience, develop a skill called wind sensing or wind feel which helps you detect the wind and anticipate its changes. How can you tell the direction of…Read More
Building Race Management Resources
By: Jenn Lancaster, Race Director, Newport Harbor Yacht Club / Lynn M. Lynch, On-the-Water Director, Chicago Yacht Club / Taran Teague, Annapolis Yacht Club Building race management resources at your club or sailing center requires a significant commitment. Investing time, effort and money in these resources can go a long way in positively impacting sailors'…Read More
Implementing an Offshore Safety and Preparedness Plan
By: Chuck Hawley & Sally Lindsay HoneyHere are some items to consider when creating and implementing an offshore safety and preparedness plan:1. Start with a safety ethos for the event2. Implement pre-departure training3. Select an equipment list4. Identify skipper/crew/yacht qualifications, if any5. Pre-departure inspections – make them useful6. Communication plan appropriate for the event7. Emergency…Read More
Your Most Powerful Marketing Tool: The regatta website
Does your regatta website succeed in engaging the public and preparing your competitors? Jared Wohlgemuth of the San Diego Yacht Club walks us through the "must-haves" for your regatta website. Define Your Regatta: recurring event or singular, local/regional, national/international, media attention, sponsor requirements Know Participant’s Needs: regatta documents, logistics, schedules, value for participation, regatta management…Read More
Adaptive Sailing: Building a program
By: Cristina Rubke, Maureen McKinnon, Betsy Alison, and Joe Harris In this US Sailing Leadership Forum presentation, you will learn about adaptive facilities, equipment, designs, staff training tips, recruitment, resources and funding.Why Adaptive Sailing?• Creates a positive difference in many lives• Increases your membership and outreach base• Increases access to funding opportunities• Creates new Partnership…Read More
Case Study: An Emergency Action Plan Report from OCSC
When a Life Hangs in the Balance – Emergency at the Club By: Rich Jepsen and Steve SaulAll sailing instructors and program directors are trained in the ‘what ifs’ of safety and risk in our jobs teaching kids and adults how to sail, while providing them opportunities to enjoy their new found skills.We all know…Read More
Sharing the Seas: Safe Boating for Sailors and Whales
Did you know that collision with vessels is one of the leading causes of death among whales, such as the endangered North Atlantic right whale? Collisions can also cause thousands of dollars in damage to boats and injure crew. US Sailing, the Audubon Society of Rhode Island, New Bedford Whaling Museum and Whale and Dolphin…Read More