WIND - Creating Future Generations of Champions
In 2005, the Sailing Foundation developed an annual racing clinic for youth sailors at the Columbia Gorge, to give them a taste of heavy air sailing under the guidance of some outstanding coaches. The clinics, held each year since then, have been great successes.
The clinic consists of lectures and on-the-water drills including tactics, sail trim, etc., together with information on what is required for an Olympic or national campaign, in terms of time, money, travel and personal commitment. Lasers, Radials, 4.7s and 29ers are utilized for the on-the-water portion of the clinic. Boats are available for charter to out-of-area participants. Participants range in age between 13 and 18 and must be members of US Sailing or the Canadian Yachting Association. They are selected for participation based on their resume of sailing experience. Following the three-day clinic, a regatta is held for participants and other area sailors.
The clinic is held at Cascade Locks, a beautiful place with many things to do off the water. It's a great opportunity for families to come and enjoy the area with their sailing offspring.
In 2008, WIND will be sponsored by The Columbia Gorge Racing Association. More information regarding WIND is available at www.cgra.org.
Click here for a summary of the 2007 event and visit our photo gallery for some great action shots of past clinics.
