After-school sailing for kids and teens

GILFORD — Local youths with or without prior sailing experience will have the opportunity this spring to experience the joy and challenges of sailing in a local after-school program.

Offered by the Lake Winnipesaukee Sailing Association, these classes will focus on the basics of sailing, boat handling, and safety. Classes are taught by nationally certified instructors in 8-foot and 14-foot sailing dinghies. Each session will incorporate on-land instruction along with hands-on water skills development.

Youths of all abilities, ages 8–16, are welcome, from beginners to experienced sailors, and will be grouped by age and ability.

Financial assistance available

This program is offered at a discounted rate of $99 per person, but the school never turns anybody away because of inability to pay. Parents may inquire in confidence about financial assistance by writing to sailing-school@lwsa.org.

Session One: May 23 25, 31, June 1 from 4 to 7 p.m.

Session Two: June 6, 8, 13, 15 from 4 to 7 p.m.

Location: Dave Adams Memorial Sailing Center, 25 Davis Rd., Gilford

For more information visit: www.lwsa.org/afterschool-sailing or email sailing-school@lwsa.org with all your questions.

There will be a swim test the first day. Life jackets are required — the fitted vest style. We have plenty of vests available if you need to borrow one for the program. Advanced registration is required.

In its 35th season, the school is based at the Dave Adams Memorial Sailing Center on Smith Cove in Gilford. It has a fleet of 32 sailboats plus five motorboats which are used for safety and teaching. The summer schedule may be seen at lwsa.org.