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Sandspit Yacht Club (SYC) is launching a new annual sailing event to see off summer on March 22 that’s open to novices, newcomers and seasoned racers alike – the SYC Centreboard Regatta.
The event celebrates both the rich sailing history of Algies Bay as well as the next generation of Kiwi sailors and is a chance for the community to come together.
SYC centreboard division head Ben Molloy says their goal is to show kids, parents and anyone who’s curious that sailing can be accessible and fun.
“We’ll have safety boats on the water, instructors on hand and a relaxed environment. It’s truly a chance for anyone to give sailing a go,” he says.
On the day, club members and volunteer coaches will conduct short learn-to-sail sessions and friendly races that encourage novices to build confidence.
First-timers will be able to join short water sessions to practice steering, trimming sails and rounding marks.
Meanwhile, more experienced sailors – whether new to the region or longtime residents – can sign up for practice drills or friendly races.
SYC commodore Debbie Aldred encourages anyone interested to stop by.
“We’ll have spare lifejackets, and we welcome families to watch from the shoreline if they’re not quite ready to hop in a dinghy themselves. It’s about the community getting together on the water,” she says.
“There’s nothing quite like the feeling of harnessing the wind. It might spark a new hobby or even the next sailing champion, but either way you’ll have a fantastic day on the water.”
For more than five decades the calm yet sometimes challenging waters of Algies Bay have provided the perfect training ground for young sailors.
Aldred says seeing a young sailor take the helm for the first time is a special moment.
“It’s not just about learning knots and points of sail, it’s about self-confidence and discovery. That spark happens right here in Algies Bay.”
SYC Centreboard Regatta (learn-to-sail sessions, friendly races), March 22, 10am. Algies Bay, contact: Sandspit Yacht Club office@sandspityachtclub.nz
