laser train

Laser Training Easter Mon 5th April

So, the choice was this; do I spend Easter Monday at home doing the gardening and D.I.Y. or do go to Notts county, join up with 20 more Laser sailors and spend a full day being coached on how to sail my Laser even better? No contest really!!

And so our mainly newer members of the fleet turned up with some trepidation to be greeted by a bitingly cold 20mph+ wind. Richard Benson, an RYA and top Laser coach took the day. An depth tuition on the workings of a Laser sail started the day, with emphasis on the use of sail controls on how to power up and depower the boat. Fine tuning of boats followed and it was then time to get on the water.

I was quite concerned at this point that the whole event would turn into a Paintcraft benevolent day, as the wind had picked up even more with plenty of white horses. (Even Notts County waves!).

I needn't have worried; each and everyone of those who went out were fantastic. The control of the boats was quite remarkable in the conditions. A few capsizes ensued but no major problems.

Back on shore there were plenty of smiles, achievements by all.

More classroom, more instruction on the finer workings of the Laser; then a well deserved break for lunch.

The afternoon session was quite exhilarating with loads of fantastic controlled reaching across the lake. A final debrief with video analysis rounded off the day.

I was so proud of everyone who took part. The commitment and endeavour that everyone showed was quite remarkable. From the youngest (15) to oldest (c65), they all surpassed themselves.

Today was the first of several planned coaching days for Lasers this season. In a couple of weeks time we have the No. 1 Laser coach in the country coming to give our '1st string' a day to remember. Dave Marshall and myself are attending a Laser/RYA workshop next weekend which will give us valuable access to free coaching days to Laser sailors at our club. And, Rebecca and David are sorting out several training sessions that they will run with the help of our more experienced helms.

So, plenty more coming in the near future. If you are not receiving my exclusive Laser News emails and want to be on the mailing list ley me know.

Finally, I would like to thank RUSS CLAY, REBECCA OGDEN, DAVID MARSHALL and RICHARD WHITE for freely giving up their time today to make the event possible. We couldnt have run it without their help manning the safety boats and coaching .

So, must go and see if Hils found the mower and paintbrush......