Following the success of the various introductory keelboat sailing and racing courses last year and the integration within HYC's cruising and racing 'fraternities', the club has set out and replicated another range of these courses to be held over the coming 2 months. With a focus on integrating new and potential members within the sport and helping prepare crew for racing and cruising with members throughout the year, these courses provide opportunities for eager and potential racing sailors as well as creating a pathway for those who will prefer a more leisurely experience, while 'learning the ropes' and with a view to becoming skilled sailors.

The three opportunities are explained below:

Spring Warmer Series - Try Racing

Following on from the success in last year’s Autumn League the Try Racing programme is back for the Key Capital Spring Warmer Series. Led by our Vice Commodore, Emmet Dalton, a team of volunteers will act as mentors in HYC fleet of J80s. The cost to Club Members is €50 which covers up to 2 races per day on both Saturdays 1st and 8th April. First gun is scheduled for 10.55 each day. For more information and to reserve a place contact Karen at [email protected]

Try Sailing for Beginners

We are running half day courses for adults who would like to try sailing and find out a bit more about Howth Yacht Club. The courses will run from 10.00 to 14.00 on Saturday 15th, Sunday 16th and Saturday 22nd April. The course fee of €50 includes soup and sandwiches after sailing. If you have any friends or neighbours who might be interested they can get more information on 8322141 or at [email protected]

Learn to Sail

We are also running intensive two and a half day Learn to Sail courses for adults with little or no sailing experience. The courses will be delivered by qualified ISA Keelboat Instructors and will introduce participants to basic boat handling techniques and give them the background knowledge necessary to get started in sailing. The first course runs from 18.00 to 21.00 on Friday 5th May and from 9.30 to 17.00 on Saturday 6th and Sunday 7th May. The course fee of €250 includes the use of a buoyancy aid and waterproofs if required. For more information and to reserve a place contact Karen at [email protected]