Sailing director Bill Hilton has been with the Patchogue Village Parks Department summer program for over 30 years. Last week, the six-week program ended with about 54 children ages 7 to 16 in attendance.
“This summer sailing program went very well,” Hilton said, explaining his passion for the program. “No doubt, they have fun. These kids have a ball out on the water.”
Instructors are mainly program alumni and local Wet Pants Sailing Club recruits, who led a beginner and advanced program twice a week on Mondays and Wednesdays, or Tuesdays and Thursdays.
In addition to the basics of sailing, children learn to respect the water, the weather and how to build their confidence in a smaller vessel.
“It’s a good time,” Hilton added. “Good, clean fun.”
Children must pass a swim test to qualify and are adorned with life vests and boat shoes. Lessons were rain or shine for a nominal fee of $150 for residents and $225 for non-residents.
Comments
No comments on this item Please log in to comment by clicking here