An Amazing Ride On Dubai’s Volvo 70 ft. Ocean Racer, ‘True North’

A rare opportunity was presented to the adult and junior sailors and their families of The Bahamas Sailing Association (BSA) on Sunday. A chance to sail a 70 ft. Volvo Ocean Racer, known as “True North” that arrived on Friday as part of a world tour to promote Dubai as a candidate city for the 2020 World Expo. True North competed in the 2008-2009 Volvo Around The World Ocean Race, its arrival in Nassau signified the end of its Caribbean leg before heading off to the South Pacific. Sailors were treated to an hour and half sail out to sea and were invited to take turns “trimming” and “helming”.

With a wonderfully bright and gusty day wind speeds were up to a lively 22 knots ensuring that all on board could fully appreciate the capabilities of this ultra modern sail boat. The crew were very enthusiastic to show off their vessel and encouraged sailors as young as 8 years old to take command and steer the 70 ft. Ocean Racer and get a taste of what it would be like on the high seas behind the wheel of a boat of this size and magnitude. Young sailors especially were awestruck and felt inspired by the opportunity that they were given. The usual response was “when can I do that again?”. As each young person took their turn, their confidence rose and smiles were soon in place as they mastered the art of navigating the enormous craft. 

Some sailors were lucky enough to reach speeds of 20 knots and were amazed at the power they were able to command at the helm. Even when most those on board were soaked by the massive spray coming over bow as the boat sliced through the ocean waves, laughter followed and everyone was positively exhilarated by the combination of wind speed and saltwater rinses. 

Robert Dunkley of the BSA arranged for 46 of their members to participate in order to give them the chance to gain a full sailing experience that diversifies from the smaller craft the sailors are used to. A further trip has been organised exclusively for his best and brightest young sailors to ensure they have more time on the water and exposure to the sailing conditions a boat of this size can offer. Robert expressed his gratitude to the welcoming crew of “True North” and their commitment to allowing adult and young sailors to share in this wonderful sailing experience.

BSA's Year Round Sailing Program Starting September 1, 2012

We have just finished our Summer Sailing Camps (3 two week sessions during July and August) which we are glad to say went extremely well. We had 84 students of which around 35 were newcomers to sailing. We thank everyone involved for their participation and support, especially our Sr. Instructors, Brent Burrows Jr. and Donico Brown. Along with six other Instructors and Assistant Instructors they did an excellent job.

Now it is time again for our Year Round Sailing Program. This begins on September 1st and goes through to the end of June 2013. There will be two terms; the first term being September to December and the second being January to June. The cost for the first term is $80.00 and the second is $100.00 ($20 per month). For those who really cannot afford it but wish to participate please let me know and we will do our best to find you a sponsor.

The schedule is as follows:

Saturdays:

9:30 to 12:30 - Opti Beginners, Opti Intermediate and Opti Advanced

1:30 to 4:30 - Sunfish & Laser Advanced Team

Opti Green Fleet (Beginners) - Those who started sailing for the first time this summer and those who started before the summer who wish to remain as Green Fleet sailors.

Opti Silver Fleet (Intermediate) - Those who were with us before the Summer Sailing Camps, have sailed in the Opti Nationals and have decided they are comfortable sailing as Championship Fleet sailors.

Opti Gold Fleet (Advanced International Team) - Those who have been sailing for over two years and are ready to race internationally as part of an advanced racing team. Parents and sailors are expected to assist with fund-raising for away events.

Sunfish - Those who have outgrown or too old for the Optimist but not ready yet for the Laser Advanced team.

Laser Advanced Team - Those who have at least three years racing experience and are ready to race internationally as part of an advanced racing team. Parents and sailors are expected to assist with fund-raising for away events.

For the month of September we will be running our "After School" sessions from 3:30 to 5:00 on Thursdays and Fridays so everyone will be well practiced for he Opti Nationals on October 5 & 6. These sessions will be for anyone who wishes to attend. There will be no extra charge for this. We did send information about the Nationals on August 12th. PLEASE REGISTER at http://www.regattanetwork.com/event/5447 and let me (Robert) know this is done ASAP. If you didn't receive the information please let me know. The "After School" sessions will likely continue after September but will depend on what we have going with the government and private schools. St. Andrew's School has already reserved us for Tuesday and Wednesday afternoons. 

To find out the latest in sailing news and events we have a new website STARTING TOMORROW -  www.BAHsailing.org. with thanks to Brent Burrows Jr. (who designed and now administers it) and Thierry Huguenin.  It is impressive and easy to use. It is also linked to BSA Facebook and Blogger so perfect for social networking and staying in touch with us and other interested parties.

We look forward to having you with us for the year. 

Best regards,

Robert Dunkley

Director - Bahamas National Sailing School.