Opening Season kickoff BBQ!

Despite a bit of early morning light winds and low tide, the Alameda Community Sailing Center's Annual Season opening kickoff BBQ was a blast. Volunteers, instructors, and Crew-In-Training were on hand to help get people quickly signed up and out on the water. Free life jackets were distributed courtesy of California Division of Boat and Waterways. While it is true that there is an art to sailing in light winds, I personally prefer my sailing a little more spirited. By noon the placid surface of the water was breaking and the winds came in. We had near perfect conditions for the rest of the afternoon.

On and FJ Trainer, my wife and I were able to take advantage of the day. It was pretty apparent to the instructor who let us venture out on our own, that hmmm perhaps one-weekend class two-years ago doesn't qualify one as mastering sail trim. "Wait! What does head up mean?!" was the response to my gentle suggestion. A few tacks and enthusiastic surges of adrenaline had us zipping right across the cove. (Rescue boat at the ready just in case.) 

Back on shore my little 3yr old matey was kicking a soccer ball around on the expanded ACSC grounds with other kids and adults. I talked with parents who beamed with pride about their child who'd completed seasons before and was now a Crew-In-Training. The sun warmed up and dried up those of us who might have taken a bit of a swim in the bay, and we devoured some tasty burgers (with salsa - a nice touch) and more than a few desserts.

A big thank you to all of you that came out and made it such a success! Now let's get sailing!