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The 2004 Level 1/2 course trainees with some of the training team.

As a complete novice earlier this year, and having acquired a Wayfarer I thought I would book onto the RYA course and ‘learn to do it properly’.  I had tried to read the books, but alas, that didn’t work for me. The pages seemed to go round in my head, and I was none the wiser several chapters later.   I have to do and practice…and practice…and practice, until I get there.  So, having watched the older two of our children thoroughly enjoying the youngster’s course, I eagerly awaited ‘my’ turn.  

It came on June 19th.  A group of us sat ready, and I was pleasantly surprised by their friendliness – well not really surprised, as Kielder Sailing Club seems to be that sort of a place.  This has been our first year of membership and we have really enjoyed it.  

Well, within minutes of arrival to a Force 4 wind, we were rigging the boats.  It all seemed to make sense at last, and all those bits of rope (sheets) and shackles didn’t seem half as confusing.  We were all paired off, and away we went.  I was impressed by the way the instructors took us all as individuals.  There was a huge difference in ability between my ‘partner,’ and myself but nobody rushed me to do anything I didn’t feel ready for.  That took a couple of sessions, but I got there in the end.  

After the first day, I was shattered and wind swept, but the book that hadn’t been much help suddenly made sense, and I found myself practicing knot tying with little bits of rope, and even drawing triangular courses in an attempt to work out where to go.  A rubber cut in the shape of a boat helped, and the kids too occupied themselves for hours with bits of string.  Who says Kids need Xmas presents?  After a bit of practice, I found I could even tie a bowline, which years earlier when rock climbing, I had never mastered.  

The following weekends were just as enjoyable, and we had a go at righting a capsized Wayfarer, which turned out to be easier than I had thought it would be.  I have since learned that it is harder when blowing a hoolie, as there is so much to think about – the wind direction being one.  We learned all about the points of sail, launching, slowing down, man overboard and triangular courses. I found it mentally challenging and quite a challenge to the backside too.  Mine hasn’t been the same since.

 It was good also to get out with different instructors for lots of encouragement.

"Spill some wind, spill some wind. …  You’re seriously in danger of knowing what you’re doing…. I’m happy with that…  "

I hadn’t realised sailing involved so much thinking.

The course ended with the chance to participate in a race.  Lots of adrenaline spent that day!!!

I have been out a few times since the course, often with other course members to practise the skills learnt.  All in all, the course was great.  I would recommend it to anyone keen to gain a bit of confidence and ability.  The instructors were always willing to help – we all had a good laugh and made new friends, and we all learned loads.  I just keep hoping for a nice gentle force 2 or 3…………

Finally, I think the instructors at Kielder should be congratulated and thanked for their unlimited energy and enthusiasm for both the sport and the club.  Without them, the club would fail to encourage so many novices and new members.  I have great admiration for all, who put in so much effort for others.  Keep it up.  I hope that by this time next year, I will be on the list for the Seamanship skills course, as I’d really like to know what to do with an anchor!