‘Kids in boats’ learn the ropes

After weeks of learning the ropes, 12 new sailors received participation certificates for successfully completing the ‘Kids and Boats’ sailing course.

On Saturday the young team gathered at the sailing club to show off their new sailing skills in the Optimist class.

And judging by the wide grins on the faces of the new sailors – the course was an awesome experience for them all.

The youngsters were coached by national sailors Tanus Henry, Junior Charlie, Teau McKenzie and Toka Narayan – who all began their sailing careers in the very Optimist vessels the new lot learned to sail in.

With strong winds at Muri on Saturday, the young yachties really got a thrill zipping up and down the lagoon.

After showing off their skills on the water, the kids were then presented with their participation certificates by patron Bob Boyd and commodore Barry Warner.

After each child received their certificates, Boyd expressed his joy at seeing the next generation of sailors taking up the sport.

He told the kids that he hoped to see them all continue with sailing and “take charge of your own destiny”.

Parents who want their kids to continue learning how to sail must now register them as members of the Rarotonga Sailing Club, so that they can enjoy regular sailing training and be part of the club’s regular sailing competitions.

Meantime parents can still get their children involved in sailing by heading to the club on Muri beach on Saturday mornings where you will find club members who are more than happy to include you and your child into their programmes.

The next ‘Kids in Boats’ course is expected to start up again in August.