Learning to sail
Year 6 students from Reigner Catholic School sailed — literally — into the school year with a week of optimist yachting at Pandora Pond, Napier, recently.
The 10 and 11-year-olds learnt how to rig their boat, including tying a bowline and figure of eight knot.
On the water the sailors were sent on different routes round the buoys and set challenges to collect as many wood blocks and sponges as they could.
The opportunity came from the Hawke’s Bay Optimist Yacht Trust, which provides 15 yachts for the students to learn on.
Reigner Catholic School principal Anton Heynes says the yachting experience was a first for many of the students.
“Initially the children were in pairs as they mastered the steering and control of the sail but by the end of the week many felt confident to take on a solo journey,” Anton says. “Adults are alongside the children in a motorboat and kayaks. The optimist yachts are perfect for learning how to sail, as they are safe and sturdy.
“We were blessed with fantastic weather too, which just topped off the entire experience. It was a fabulous start to the school year.”