Local Youth Sailing Program

Dear Editor:

Learning to sail has been the most rewarding experience of my life and has opened many doors to opportunities that I otherwise would have never been exposed to.

I have had the chance to crew on a variety of boats with many amazing people not only near home, but also all over Florida and in the Abacos.

I owe all of these amazing experiences to my parents, who signed me up for sailing lessons when I was 7 years old and encouraged me to continue, despite my initial protests.

The Youth Sailing Program is a non-profit program run by Hillsboro Inlet Sailing Club (HISC) that teaches children how to observe boat safety and how to sail small boats. Now that I am older, I have been given the opportunity to instruct other kids; this experience has made me realize how educational and fun the Youth Sailing Program is. The most rewarding aspect to me is being able to get the shyest of kids out on their own by the end of the four weeks, instilling a new feeling of courage and independence. But in the same breath, I love seeing naturally outgoing children who show up, ready to start and eager to learn.

Our lessons are open to children older than 8 who are interested in learning how to sail Prams, Sunfish or Lasers. All instructors are volunteers who greatly enjoy seeing the children out on the water despite the occasional crying or screaming.

I strongly encourage all HISC members, and non-members alike, to bring their children, grandchildren, nieces, or nephews to try out sailing.

The next four dates are our fall series — August 3, 10, 17, and 24 (weather permitting). On the fourth date, we always have a picnic. We encourage everyone to come out and celebrate with us! I hope to see old and new faces this coming fall out on the lake!

Mikayla Scott

Deerfield Beach