Welcome to the next generation of Cat Sailors! On Saturday 9th May – fifteen cadets took the opportunity to try out cat sailing at Marconi. There was a shore based session to talk through the different aspects of sailing a cat vs sailing the type of dinghies they were more familiar with. A dry capsize drill was also demonstrated as this is also a little different to righting a Topper, Pico or Laser.
The Cadets then headed out on the water in a fleet of Dart 15s, Dart 16s and Dart 18s each with a tutor on board. The sun was out, the breeze was good and the water was flat. Perfect conditions to get a feel for cat sailing and to try helming for those that wanted to.
After coming ashore for lunch, the fleet headed out for another water session. The breeze had freshened so the fleet enjoyed a blast round a square course enjoying the speed and getting thoroughly wet in the process! Everyone came ashore with a big smile on their face.
Thank you to all the cat sailors who lent their boats and expertise and to those who manned the safety boats. Thanks also to the parents for helping with launch and recovery. The cadets had a great day and it was great to see their enthusiasm and energy!
