Children and adults are getting an introduction to sailing as the South Okanagan Sailing Association offers its Learn to Sail courses this summer.
David Watts, director of the Learn to Sail program, said one-week and two-week courses are offered, with children as young as six years old participating.
The coaching staff and instructors are sailors who have gone through the program in the past.
“We’re proud of the development of local people as instructors,” he said.
Each year, around 100 people are enrolled in the Learn to Sail courses. The introductory course runs for three hours a day over five days, while some of the more advanced courses are six hours a day for 10 days.
The programs for the younger children tend to be the most popular.
Watts said sailing provides a good workout for participants.
“It’s healthy. It’s exercise like you wouldn’t believe,” he said. “You’re working every muscle group.”
Because of the demand this year, many of the courses have already filled up, but organizers are considering an additional course for children during the first week of August, depending on the level of interest.
