This summer the Carter Lake Sailing Club, a long term partner with the Larimer County Department of Natural Resources, will again provide three fun-filled weekends for 10-to-16-year-olds to sail on beautiful Carter Lake. Whether first time sailors or more advanced, they’ll have a blast sailing in “Sunfish” sailboats while working on improving skills.

The goal of the Sailing Club is not only to introduce kids to a wonderful sport, but to kindle a love for sailing that can last a lifetime! These are common goals with the Department of Natural Resources: to get youth into the outdoors, interested in water-based activities, educated about boating and water safety, and invested in taking care of our resources.

Sessions are from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. July 9 & 10, July 23 & 24, and August 6 & 7. Cost is $50 per weekend, plus a one-time materials fee of $25 to cover books and t-shirts. Go to the Carter Lake Sailing Club website www.sailcarter.org for information and registration, as well as to learn about two available scholarships.

The first two weekends (July 9 & 10, and July 23 & 24) are for beginner/intermediate sailors, and will focus on basic sailing skills such as points of sailing, parts of the boat and sail, weather awareness, care of the boat, and understanding sail trim enough to successfully pilot the boat. (Water blasters, donated by sponsors, ensure that everyone gets wet and has fun in the process!) The third weekend (August 6 & 7) is open to those who have attended either or both of the first two sessions. Students will advance in skills, put it together in some races, and have a chance to helm a keel boat!

The junior sailing program is run entirely by volunteers who love to sail and hope to pass on their passion for the sport to the next generation. Larimer County rangers work with the Sailing Club to ensure safety at these events.  The junior sailing program is fun as well as safe, and provides the opportunity for individual accomplishment as well as promoting teamwork. What a great way for kids to spend a part of their summer! Questions can be addressed to juniorsailing@sailcarter.org