Kirklands help junior sailors in clinic

By Colin Thompson

Published Jul 10, 2012 at 9:14 am (Updated Jul 10, 2012 at 9:13 am)

Skiff sailing has a “promising” future in Bermuda.

That’s the opinion of Olympic-bound 49er sailors Jesse and Zander Kirkland who took the opportunity to nurture the next generation of local skiff sailors during a clinic hosted by Royal Hamilton Amateur Dinghy Club (RHADC) at the weekend.

Attending the two-day exercise were sailors ranging in ages from 15 to 20, including the likes of Mackenzie Cooper, Kalin Hillier, Ellie Wollman, Dimitri Stevens and Hanah Horsfield who continue to impress in the local 29er fleet.

“We have a lot of talent in the youth ranks,” commented past All -American college sailor Jesse. “It’s great getting them involved in the 29er, the feeder class to our boat (49er).

“Skiff sailing is very exciting and we’re hoping these guys and girls are the beginning of something promising here.”

Former Newport Harbour sailing coach Zander added: “We were stoked to work with Bermuda’s next generation of skiff sailors. We tried to work them through their paces in a practice similar to what we do in the 49er.

“The short course racing seems basic in a normal sailboat. But in these skiffs technique is everything and that is what these short courses put a premium on. Throughout the weekend we emphasised boat handling and the amount of work needed to put in that department in these boats.

“It’s tough and not easy, but all the work is worth it . . . you sail the Ferrari of the Olympic classes and rip around the race course!”

The Kirklands qualified for the 2012 Olympics after producing a top ten finish at May’s 49er World Championships in Croatia.

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Published Jul 10, 2012 at 9:14 am (Updated Jul 10, 2012 at 9:13 am)

Kirklands help junior sailors in clinic

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