CYC’s junior instructional program took a significant step forward on Monday, March 15, when the club board of directors approved the purchase of 12 Optimist dinghies for about $2,500 each.

Junior Staff Commodore John Rahn, who has spearheaded establishment of the junior program, praised the board’s action as a decision that not only ensures that the junior program will happen, but will help solidify the future of the club.

“The kids that will join this program will be an important part of CYC going forward, and we believe many of their parents will become involved immediately,” Rahn said. “We aren’t just establishing a junior program. We are building a foundation for the club.”

The board approved purchase of the new dinghies after Rahn told them that the junior fundraising effort, which only started in November, already has $28,500 cash in hand. With pledges and the matching funds those pledges will generate, another $6,500 has been committed.

Rahn said junior organizers hope to raise another $10,000, which would enable them to buy four more Optimists and cover the costs of building racks for the dinghies, to be stored on the small-boat floats next to the clubhouse.

Contact the CYC Office at (206) 789-1919 for instructions on making your donations.

Jonathan Flack, junior program director, said the club will start two-week sailing camps soon after schools close for summer vacation. Specific dates will be announced soon, and a signup sheet will be posted on the CYC website.

“The instructors we’re talking with are experienced U.S. Sailing certified instructors, and we’re going to have a really good program this year,” Flack said. “It also will be a very good value compared to similar programs in the area.”

In a related matter, CYC will be hosting advanced Opti racing clinics on April 1 – 3 and May 13 – 15.  For details and registration, click here.