Budding new sailors initiated

Budding sailors at the Rarotonga Sailing Club were awarded their level one sailing certificate after spending nearly 4 months learning and perfecting their sailing skills.

The newly certified sailors including Hannah Bewg, Jade Tierney, Martin Obeda, Makua Nikoia, Ngarangi Mapu and Lovy Parker were presented their certificates by thrilled coaches Del Bewg, Ron McKenzie, Sharon Maoate and Brett Davis.

Tyler Davis, who is a Gold Fleet sailor now, belatedly received his level one certificate too as he was off the island at the last presentation.

The sailors have been sailing since March in Green Fleet level and are quickly improving towards their first racing experience.

They have been out in all weather and are learning new skills each week.

The sailing committee of Rarotonga Sailing Club has challenged the sailors and coaches to be ready for the new fibreglass optimist boats which will arrive at the club in August.

In the pipeline are 7 more sailors who will reach their level one certification within the next few weeks making the current crop a very competitive group.

The other feature of this group is the bigger number of girls attracted to the sport.

With the South Pacific Teams Racing Championships schedule to run from July 18 to 23, and the OSAF Single handed Youth Championships in Aitutaki from July 25 to 30 there will be plenty of focus on sailing in the next few weeks.