The New Plymouth Yacht Club's subcommittee, Taranaki Youth Sail, is gearing up for an exciting local Sailing event. This event is a highly popular development program that caters to sailors of all levels, focusing on Optimists, Starlings, 420s, and Elliot 5.9 Match Racing. Taranaki Youth Sail has been instrumental in running the Taranaki secondary schools team racing program, and they provide top-notch coaching using their six 420 sailing dinghies.
One of the key factors contributing to their success is the ability to fund coaching clinic visits for all aspects of their sailing programs. They are immensely grateful for the support received from various organisations such as New Zealand Community Trust, Toi Foundation, Pub Charity, Perlorus, Southern Trust, and, of course, the committed members of the New Plymouth Yacht Club. It is thanks to them that Taranaki Youth Sail is fortunate to own a fleet of 420s and two Elliot 5.9 match racing boats.
As part of their commitment to youth development, Taranaki Youth Sail holds an annual two-day Junior Sailing camp every January. The camp not only provides valuable training but also serves as a fantastic opportunity for young sailors to connect with and make new friends. With the camp open to all Optimist and Starling sailors in the Western Districts sailing area, it attracts a considerable number of budding sailors eager to sharpen their skills while having a blast.
For those enrolled in their coaching programs, Taranaki Youth Sail offers weekly coaching sessions on Wednesday evenings from 5pm to 7pm during school terms. These sessions are tailored for Optimist Learn to Race, Green, Open fleet, and Starling sailors, ensuring that each category receives the focused attention they need to thrive.
Taranaki Youth Sail also takes great pride in nurturing a vibrant Secondary School sailing program. From February through to the end of April, New Plymouth Girls and Boys high schools and Francis Douglas Memorial College compete in team racing events across the country. This program not only fosters healthy competition but also provides a platform for young sailors to showcase their skills and passion for sailing.
Apart from their regular programs, Taranaki Youth Sail organises an annual Junior Sail Camp held at their club rooms on Ngamotu Beach. This highly anticipated event welcomes Optimist and Starling sailors of all experience levels. It is a wonderful opportunity for both new and seasoned sailors to learn, grow, and establish lasting friendships. With the added perk of spending a night at the Yacht club, the camp offers a unique experience that young sailors look forward to every year.
The Junior Sail Camp is well-structured and overseen by a skilled Yachting NZ sailing coach and instructors. Furthermore, Taranaki Youth Sail members and parents extend their assistance to ensure a memorable and fulfilling experience for all participants. Alongside coaching sessions and races, the camp also incorporates fun activities like novelty races and a lolly scramble on the water with balloons. These activities not only inject an element of excitement but also emphasise the importance of confidence in their boats and safety measures, such as mandatory life jacket wearing and multiple rescues craft on the water.
Overall, Taranaki Youth Sail is committed to developing young sailors and fostering a strong sense of community within the sport. Whether it is through their coaching programs, team racing events, or the annual Junior Sail Camp, they strive to provide a nurturing environment for sailors to hone their skills, foster friendships, and create lasting memories.
