Learning the basics of sailing, tying knots, understanding safety and weather conditions, and sailing on beautiful Langford Bay in an Optimist Dinghy with a US Sailing-certified Instructor . . . these experiences and more will be part of this summer for Connor Bass, age 11 of Rock Hall and Kaylee Raimond, age 9 of Chestertown.
They are the first recipients of a new sailing school scholarship program to honor the memory of Chuck Parry, founder of the Rock Hall Yacht Club Sailing School (RHYCSS). The Charles G. Parry “Mr. Chuck” Memorial Scholarship was established in 2011 to award two worthy students with enrollment in the RHYCSS “Learn to Sail Program.”
“Chuck Parry loved sailing and his dream was to start a sailing school and ultimately extend that opportunity to children who might not have the resources to try it on their own,” says Connie Ranney, President of the RHYCSS Board of Directors. “We have been working to fulfill Chuck’s dream, and so established a scholarship fund after his passing this winter.”
“ ‘Motivated and eager to learn’ describe both of this year’s recipients,” explains Ranney. “These students love the outdoors and are excited about the opportunity to get out on the water and try sailing.”
The goal of the scholarship program is to award two young people between the ages of 8 to 12 years old the opportunity to learn to sail. The children who were chosen have demonstrated a desire to sail. RHYCSS Board Members, John Sirna and Heidi Anthony are implementing and managing the program, including interviewing the applicants.
The scholarship covers a two-week introductory sailing class and the cost of their required equipment. The students must be able to pass a simple swimming test the first day of school and have committed to attend every session to get the full experience.
The Sailing School is currently enrolling students in classes from Pee Wee (age 5-7), to beginner and advanced (age 8-18), Racing Team and Adult, including Ladies-only and Men-only Learn to Sail and private lessons. For schedules and registration details, visit https://RHYCSailingSchool.org. For questions call Connie or Denise at 410-775-TACK or email [email protected].
The Rock Hall Yacht Club Sailing School offers sailing programs for ages 5 to adult and welcomes non-members and members of Rock Hall Yacht Club to its programs. All courses are taught by US Sailing-certified instructors. The instructors’ goals are to teach children to be safe, have fun, and learn to sail. The RHYCSS also offers tax deductible receipts or cash for the donation of boats (and boat trailers). RHYCSS is a 501(c)(3) nonprofit organization affiliated with the Rock Hall Yacht Club.
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