It Works: Women's Sailing Conference
The National Women's Sailing Association's 7th annual Women's Sailing Conference, held June 2 in Marblehead, Massachusetts, was an over-the-top success, according to more than 100 participants, including me.
A variety of workshops during the day included exercises ranging from knot tying to learning to fly a spinnaker, delving into the basics of race strategy, discovering the secrets of diesel engines, and figuring out what to do if you find yourself "suddenly singlehanded." The conference hosted women of all ages, skill levels, and interests—some coming from as far away as London—but they all shared a desire for knowledge and empowerment.
The sessions were hands-on, small enough for every woman to try each maneuver, and taught by experienced women sailors. During the spinnaker session I learned to pack a spinnaker, trim the sheet and guy, and gybe the pole—I'd never flown a spinnaker before—and I left with a basic understanding of spinnaker trim and a general idea of how a spinnaker works. Women who had handled spinnakers for years (doing the job with blinders on) were finally able to put their heads up and see how all the parts of a racing team fit together during maneuvers.
No matter what your skill level, there was something you could take away from each session. Just as important, women who had spent years as mere passengers on their boats learned that they could not only participate, but take charge.
Never underestimate the power of a strong female role model.
A similar event will be held at Port Townsend Yacht Club in August. Go to womensailing.org to register and to get information about other programs.
By Rebecca Waters