27th ANNUAL SCYA WOMEN’S SAILING CONVENTION

Where do women sailors go to learn? The Southern California Yachting Association, will hold its 27th Annual Women’s Sailing Convention on Saturday, February 6, 2016 at the Bahia Corinthian Yacht Club, Corona del Mar. The daylong, ladies-only series of shore-and-boat-based workshops offer beginners to experts a welcoming environment to learn more about all topics sailing. Boat Owners Association of The United States (BoatUS) has been the event’s primary sponsor since its inception. This event is open to all women interested in sailing from novice / beginner to expert.
 
The event maintains its multi-workshop format: Attendees select a combination workshops in areas that best fits their interest and ability, such as: Welcome Aboard (for beginners), Diesels, Going Up the Mast, Introduction to Racing, Tactics, Docking, Overboard Procedures, Suddenly Singlehanded Interactive, Weather, Sail Trim, Basic Navigation, Maintenance Mania, DIY Canvas Projects, How to Heave a Line, Nighttime Sailing & Navigation, Hassel-Free Heads, Spinnaker Rigging, Offshore Cruising, and Introduction to Sailing. The WSC Race Starts (BCYC) will be held in Harbor 20’s. All 30 of the workshops are presented by top women sailors from all over Southern California, many of whom are USCG Licensed Captains.

To top off the event in the evening, the 2016 speaker will be Ms. Margaret Bonds Podlich who serves as President of Boat Owners Association of The United States. Ms. Podlich began at BoatUS in 1994 as the Director of the former BoatUS Clean Water Trust. Ms. Podlich began at BoatUS in 1994 as the Director of the former BoatUS Clean Water Trust. Ms. Podlich is a life-long boater, raised in a sailing family. After racing in college while attending Tulane University, she competed in a wide range of national and international events including finishing fourth in this year's Rolex Women's International Keelboat Regatta.

According to producer/director Gail Hine, “This event gives women an opportunity to meet many other women sailors, find out about existing women’s sailing organizations in their area, instructional programs available, and many other areas of interest for those who would like to do more — racing, cruising and day sailing. We have something meaningful for everyone. For those who are already involved but desire more, we will offer some new areas of inspiration and instruction along with excellent networking opportunities.” Attendees reported that this convention was one of their most rewarding boating experiences and best-organized event they have ever attended.

To obtain a reservation form (prepaid-registrations are required as space is limited to approximately 250), write Gail Hine,  SCYA Women’s Sailing Convention, 24926 Hayes Ave., Murrieta CA 92562; 951-677-8121); email:  Gail @scya.org or on the web at www.womenssailingconvention.com (available after 12/10/15). The convention fee of $215.00 includes workshops, breakfast, lunch, dinner, souvenirs and handouts. There is early bird registration fee of $200 (12/10-12/31/15) for online registrations at www.womenssailingconvention.com

By Ocean Navigator