Basic Sail Course Description
Summary
The course is normally given three times a year, in the Spring, Summer and late Summer/ Fall
Each course consists of two Classroom Lectures, lasting about two hour each, followed by six On-The-Water (OTW) classes where students learn to sail the club American 14.6 dinghies.
The OTW classes are usually two student and one instructor to a boat, although this can change with circumstances. Students will learn how to rig and de-rig the boat, as well as how to sail it, with special attention being paid to safety.
In order to pass the course and qualify for TASCA membership, students must complete the following tests:
- Rigging and De-rigging
- Written (open Book multiple choice)
- Demonstrate ability to tie specific knots
- On the Water
We have taught over 4,000 students since 1967, and the success rate is very high. Our volunteer instructors are concerned to make sure that every student has the opportunity to learn whether they have previously been on a sailing boat or are on one for the first time. Students range in age from Sixteen to over Seventy, and are from many different backgrounds. Our classes are very 'hands on' in that each student will be sailing and controlling the boat during the On the Water classes, and will have plenty of opportunities to practice the techniques being taught. The knowledge gained during the course will be also be applicable to larger boats, and on becoming Tasca members, students will be able to advanced courses including those involving the club keel boat that is kept at the World's Fair Marina near Citi Field.
Detailed Description
Lecture 1
Registration and Welcome
Introduction to TASCA
Review of Course Manual and Procedures
Rigging and De-Rigging
Review of the Text Book "Learn Sailing Right", Chapters 1 to 10
Knots Practice
Questions and Answers
Lecture 2
Sign in and Welcome
Review of Course Materials and Procedures (continued)
Review of the Text Book "Learn Sailing Right", Chapters 11 to 16
TASCA Membership - qualifications for joining and benefits
Questions and Answers
Knots
Figure of Eight Stopper Knot
Two Half Hitches
Clove Hitch
Bowline
Sheet Bend
Cleat Hitch
Square Knot
Rolling Hitch
On The Water Classes
Class 1: Boarding, Balance, Rigging, Getting Underway, Wind Direction, Steering with the Tiller, Heading Up, Falling Off, Coming About, De-rigging
Class 2: Review of previous lesson, Points of Sail (upwind), Getting out of Irons, Sail Trim, Safety Position, Awareness of Traffic, Approach to Mooring
Class 3: Review of previous lessons, Using the Centerboard, Point of Sail (downwind), Jibing, Hazards of Sailing by the Lee, Unintentional Jibe, Rules of the Road
Class 4: Review of previous lessons, Safety/First aid, Overboard Recovery,Approach to the Dock
Class 5: Review of previous lessons, Practice Skills, Sailing Drills, Sailing with the Jib
Class 6: Review of previous lessons, Practice Skills, Sailing Drills, Sailing with the Jib, On the Water Test