North Shore Sailing Team

The Optimist Team consists of sailors between seven and fifteen years of age. The Optimist Team trains twice a week to learn the essentials of competitive sailing. The program teaches topics found in BC Sailing’s Optimist 1 and 2 programs for the Development Team, and focuses on more racing-specific skills for the Rep Team.

Sailors will also be participating in local regattas to test their skills against sailors from across the province. We plan to attend nine regattas this season, including the Canadian Optimist Championships in August. Details can be found under Schedules.

FAQ:
How much does the program cost?
The Fall Season 2010 (September - November) will cost $300 in coaching fees.

What is an Optimist Dinghy?
The Optimist dinghy is 7’6” long and is the only boat recognized by ISAF (sailing’s governing body around the world) specifically for sailors under 16 years of age. It is excellent for learning basic sailing skills, and provides a challenge for the more advanced sailors. At the 2008 Olympics, over 85% of the skippers on the podium were former Optimist sailors!
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=fxlYag-Iqe8

What if we do not own a boat?
Boats may be chartered (rental) from WVYC for each season. The cost of chartering a Optimist is $200 a season and can be paid when you register.

Do we need to be a member of WVYC to participate in this program?
No! The North Shore Sailing Team is open to all sailors from any of the yacht clubs across the north shore. If you wish to store your own Optimist at WVYC you will have to become a Junior Member. If you wish to become a Junior Member please "Click Here".

What days do they train? How do I check if practice is on?
The Optimist Team trains from 4pm-7pm on Tuesdays and Thursdays and 1pm-4pm on Saturdays. You can check current schedules by clicking on schedules link on the left hand side.

What does the Coaching Fee cover?
The coaching fee covers 33 practices or 108 hours of coaching. The coaching fee however does NOT cover regatta coaching as those are treated seperately due to participation.

Who should I contact if I have more questions?
Please contact Graeme Clendenan, Regional Director of the NSST @ director@northshoresailingteam.com or NSST Optimist Coach Jenn Grierson at opti@northshoresailingteam.com.