Through the generosity of CYCA member, Laurence Freeman and The Freedman Foundation, more than 40 young people from disadvantaged schools this week had what was for many, their first experience sailing on Sydney Harbour. 

As part of the orientation afternoon the sailors joined members on their yachts for a gentle introduction to sailing in the St Arnou Wednesday series.  

The kindness of members, who generously provided crewing positions on their yachts, also extended to imparting their knowledge and sharing skippering and trimming experiences with these first-time sailors.

It was wonderful to see the students return to the YSA room very excited and looking forward to practicing their new found skills  during the second part of the Freedman Foundation program.

Sailing continues in December with these students returning for an intensive two-day program on the Elliott 6’s with the support of a coach on each boat. This coaching experience provides many of the YSA’s advanced squad sailors with the opportunity to share the sailing skills that the CYCA has developed with them, and give back to the sport. – Jenni Bonnitcha/Pam Scrivenor