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Oak Harbor Youth Sailing Earns National Award - After only three summers of youth sailing lessons, the Oak Harbor Youth Sailing (OHYS) program was honored as "the outstanding new community sailing program" by the Community Sailing Council of USSailing, at the National Sailing Program Symposium in New Orleans, LA. last weekend. This award is given annually to the best new community sailing program in the country. Accepting the award on behalf of Oak Harbor Youth Sailing was Byron Skubi who serves as the chairman of the board of OHYS.

Founded by Dave French and Scott and Helen Cline, the Oak Harbor Youth Sailing program has instructed close to 75 youths in sailing techniques, etiquette, and safety since the summer of 2004. Dave and Scott's sailing experience includes accomplishments in both local and off-shore sailing. Helen's attention to detail and organizational skills have been huge assets in helping the program to grow. Over the three year period, the youth sailing program has had the advantage of qualified instructors many of which have participated in specialized training.

Open to youths nine years and older, students learn to sail in 8 foot single sail El Toros. They learn the basics of sailboat rigging, wind factors, points of sail, and safety on the docks and the water. As students progress, they advance to a larger boat, the Lido 14, with a jib and main sail. An effort has been made to keep the sailing lessons reasonably priced due in large part to the cadre of volunteer instructors and volunteers who assist with the program.

Sessions for this summer have been slated for three week periods starting June 16. Students meet for three Saturdays and Sundays from 10 a.m. to 3 p.m. at the Oak Harbor Yacht Club. A new class for adults will start on April 24 and run each Tuesday evening for six weeks.

For more information, email Dave French at grins@whidbey.net.

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