U.S. Sailing Association course materials and certified instructor

Sailboat Provided
The Laser Pico chosen for instruction is a sporty, sturdy, rotomolded-polyethylene dinghy just under 12 feet in length. Combining a spacious, self-draining cockpit and a high boom create a boat that is a comfort to sail. The Laser Pico is also quick and easy to rig so students spend more time on the water. The unique Laser Reef® system, designed to reduce the sail area when desired, can be operated while under sail. This enables instruction to continue despite changing wind conditions.

Class Descriptions
Beginner: Designed for youths that have little or no experience sailing and are interested in sailing as a fun, on-the-water activity. Basic skills (i.e. knot tying, rigging, wind direction, steering, tacking, sail trim, points of sail, etc.) will be taught and practiced. Each sailor will have his or her own boat to use for the session. Our goal is that, by the end of a week's instruction, students will have acquired basic boat handling skills.

Intermediate: For youths who have had experience with sailing, some sailing instruction, and feel at ease on the water in a small sailboat. The class is designed to increase the student's knowledge and abilities so that they can satisfactorily demonstrate certain nationally recognized basic sailing skills while increasing the student's confidence on the water to where they feel comfortable sailing without continuous supervision. Each sailor will have his or her own boat to use for the session to ensure maximum tiller time.

Race Week: For youths who are currently competent at the Intermediate or Advanced level. The intent of this class is to provide students with the skills and knowledge necessary to compete in organized sailing races. Starting line and course tactics, along with rules and etiquette will be covered. Each student will have the use of his or her own boat to use for the session, and will participate in actual race situations.

How to Register
Upon request, a Registration Form, Liability Waiver Agreement, and Medical Form with Medical Care Authorization will be sent for each child desiring to participate in the program. All forms must be filled out completely and returned with payment in full in order to reserve a spot for your child in a particular class session. Class size is limited to 10 sailors per session. Registrations are on a first-come, first-serve basis and Credit Card information will be accepted by phone to guarantee your reservation while the paperwork is in transit to avoid possible disappointment due to a class filling in the interim.

Other Useful Information

1. Classes begin promptly at the scheduled time and will be held rain or shine
2. Students will need a towel, swimsuit, and a change of clothes daily. Also a lifejacket and water use shoes are required. NO "flip-flops" or other loose sandals please. Sunglasses with a strap or means to attach them to clothing (or accept the risk of losing them in the water), and sunscreen are highly recommended.
3. Shoes and T-shirts over bathing suits must be worn when inside the clubhouse.

Further information can be obtained by emailing us at sail@chartermi.net, or by calling the PYC office Monday through Friday, 9:00 a.m. to 5:00 p.m.