Local Sailing Associations

It is said that you are only as old as you think and that thinking young will keep you that way. Well, many do not see that happening in their case but we know many people who are physically younger than a lot of folks their age and they attribute that fact to remaining active in active sports. We have noticed that many seniors want to stay at least young at heart by continuing to learn and experience those things that they have heretofore not learned or experienced. Therefore; this month we are focused on one of those activities that many folks have not had the opportunity to try, and which provides all the essentials of thinking and feeling young by stepping out of the box - just a little bit. Here in the Okanagan, we are blessed with fantastic weather, gorgeous geography and large, calm lakes at our doorstep. These lakes provide us with many opportunities to participate in any number of water sports.                                                                                                    One of the least obtrusive water sports is sailing which uses quiet, efficient wind power instead of noisy, gas-guzzling engines. Not to be lost in the myriad of commercial organizations that promote and monitor water sports are the ‘non-commercial’ local Sailing Associations. These local Sailing Associations, operating mostly on a non-profit basis, promote the sport of sailing and encourage ‘sailors’ of all ages to learn, enjoy, and if desired, compete in an exhilarating sport. Although it is not essential to undertake the formal Canadian Yachting Association lesson and qualification systems it is recommended that you do. The clubs want to ensure that there is some structure and an assurance that all of the sailing essentials are learned and practiced under the watchful eyes of those qualified to teach. The clubs, and the public, need to have some assurance that those using club boats will operate them properly and safely.                                                                                                     Offered at the clubs are the Canadian Yachting Association Certified White Sail and Bronze Sail Programs for adults and youth. For children aged six thru 15 years programmes are offered through the Mobile Optimist Sailing School. The BC Sailing Association sponsors the MOSS that travels to fourteen selected communities throughout the province each summer. The purpose of the program is to build the sailing and recreation boating culture in BC by providing affordable, safe, and fun programs for that age group with activities both on and off the water. MOSS also provides School Programmes.                                                                         Our experience while on a short familiarization visit to the South Okanagan Sailing Association (SOSA) indicated that many people are willing and able to help get one started in the sailing venue.  We were greeted by charming and engaging people who were most willing to explain their operations and highlight the health and social aspects of the sport. If this one club is any indication of the quality of the people engaged in this sport you have a very pleasant time ahead of you as you learn and practice the art and science of sailing. If you are looking to begin sailing yourself, or if you want to introduce your children or grandchildren to another of life’s finer experiences this may be the way to do it. So ready your sea legs and batten down the hatches as you venture out on the water. Aye Mate! See the links below to the sailing associations and clubs in your area.  Links Canadian Yachting Association www.sailing.ca British Columbia Sailing Association www.bcsailing.bc.ca South Okanagan Sailing Association (SOSA) http://www.sosailing.ca Central Okanagan Sailing Association www.cosa.bc.ca North Okanagan Sailing Association www.nosa.bc.ca M.O.S.S. Mobile Optimist Sailing School

 

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