Andrew Wallach, standing, junior sailing lead instructor, explains knot tying to the sailors. Photo by Mary Hursh.

By Mary Hursh
Guest Columnist

LAKE WAWASEE — At the end of the first day of the five-week junior sailing program at the Wawasee Yacht Club, young sailors made their way into the clubhouse toward the long tables arranged in a horseshoe shape to discuss the day’s sailing on Lake Wawasee.

The 20 plus students, clad in bathing suits, life jackets and a variety of hats and Crocs shoes (with charms) took their places in front of two pieces of line (rope) which they would later use to practice making a figure eight knot. Lead instructor Andrew Wallach and his five junior assistant instructors reviewed the day’s positives and the days “work-on-for-next-time” aspects of sailing. Wallach pointed to a pram set up on the porch to explain various concepts of sailing . He stressed that if a sailor felt he or she was struggling with any part of sailing to call out for an instructor. “That is what we are here for. We want each of you to be safe,” said Wallach.

Basic sailing is offered for all sailors ages 8-13. Sailors are grouped according to size, experience and ability. The focus is on basics of sailing such as boat handling and wind awareness. Optimist, O’Pen Bics and Sunfish boats are used. The advanced program is recommended for experienced sailors ages 13-15. The focus is on practicing advanced boat handling techniques, racing skills and teamwork aboard multi-crew boats. Sailors are encouraged to crew aboard Lightnings or E Scows and/or to race Sunfish during club racing weekends.

“The key takeaway for beginners is to keep their boats up, manage main sheet and tiller control and sail perpendicular to the wind. The takeaway for the advanced kids is to tack to the upwind mark and sail back to me,” said Wallach.

The junior instructors working at the club so far are Grant Garner, Rory Nelson, Graydon Holt, Jack Winter, Anna Winter, Audrey Wallach, Mia and Wynn Wellington.

Friendship plays a big part in the experience of sailing. “The kids love to see their friends from the year before. Our sailors come from all over the country,” said Wallach.

The first week of junior sailing at the Wawasee Yacht Club brought many friends together. Photo by Andrew Wallach.