What We Sail

Optimist:  The Optimist is the largest junior racing fleet in the world and the international standard in junior instruction.  The boatÕs simplicity and stability make it ideal for teaching young beginners and the strength of the class makes the boat extremely challenging for pre-teen racers.  WSA has a fleet of Optimists we use for the summer program.  There will 1 or 2 sailors per boat. 

 

420:  The club 420 is the most popular double-handed junior boat in North America.  The 420 is sturdy and safe, while providing the challenge of having main, jib, spinnaker and trapeze.  Because of the size of the boat, the 420 is best suited for sailors 12 – 18 and over 100 pounds.  WSA has a fleet of 7 competitive 420s we use for the summer program.

Laser Radial:  The Laser Radial is the single-handed option for sailors who are either too big or too old to sail the Optimist.  A smaller version of the extremely popular Laser Radial, the Laser 4.7 has a smaller sail in order to be more accommodating to the lighter skipper.  WSA does not own any Lasers, so anyone enrolling in a Laser class must provide a boat.  We do have 2 Zumas similar in sail style used for Intro to Racing.

 

 

 

 FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS

 

1.     Do I have to sign up early or can I wait?  DO NOT WAIT!  Our classes fill up fast and it is first come, first serve. 

2.     What boat do I sign my child up for?  Children ages 9 – 11 years old who are beginners will be in an Optimist.  If the beginner is age 12 years or older, or is approaching or exceeding 100 lbs., he or she may be more comfortable learning in a 420, a double-handed boat or a Zuma.  Advanced sailing (Racing) is offered in the Optimist, 420 and the Laser,  a single-handed boat for older kids, ages 13 – 17 years.

3.     Can my fees be prorated if I miss part of the program?  No.  Because we operate on a first come, first serve basis, many people are turned away.  Therefore, we cannot justify prorating when others are on a waiting list.  Many sailors miss some classes due to family vacations or other sports camps.

4.     What are my payment options?  A $280 deposit is due at the time of registration.  The balance must be paid in full prior to the start of classes.  Your child will be unable to begin classes if full payment has not been received.

 

For questions or additional information visit the website at www.wickfordyc.org.


 

This form as a One page .pdf for Printing. What We Sail and FAQ

 

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