18 Optimists blessed for training

Sponsors input recognised

with nu cracking ceremony

Junior sailors raced around Muri lagoon on Saturday before their fibreglass Optimist yachts were lined on the beach for the official blessing of the refurbished craft.

The Rarotonga Sailing Club invited their sponsors for the event where they were told by club vice president Peter Heays that their support of sailing was greatly appreciated – especially their support of junior sailing.

Heays explained that all sailors learn to sail in the Optimist boats and that since the club began teaching sailing in the Optimists some 10 years ago – over 800 children have been taught to sail.

The hope is to continue the growth of the sport by putting more children though the club’s ‘kids in boats’ course.

After a prayer of blessing, sponsors were invited to conduct the symbolic nu cracking ceremony on the boat that carries their company logo.

Each of the 18 Optimist boats was anointed with the juice of the nu and some of the sailing kids drank what was left of the juice.

It was a special occasion for the Rarotonga Sailing Club that will celebrate its 70th birthday in August – the oldest sports club on the island.

If you would like your kids to experience the thrill of sailing – head to the club rooms in Muri on Saturday mornings to find out how you and your kids can have tons of fun sailing.