Photos: Supplied.
FROM WYNNUM MANLY RADIO MODEL YACHT CLUB (WMRMYC)
Wynnum Manly Radio Model Yacht Club (WMRMYC) has established a sailing school to teach locals how to sail. The school uses radio-controlled yachts for ‘on water’ training.
The training course is designed for people who have no boating or sailing experience but also caters to those who have had some sailing experience.
Russell Gray, Commodore of WMRMYC, said that radio-controlled yachts are an excellent training tool because the small scale demonstrates all aspects of boat set-up, boat control and wind patterns. Russell said that learning how to sail from dry ground means that fitness levels do not have to be high compared to on-the-boat sailing.
Radio-controlled sailing is great for all ages and genders and offers both social sailing and competitive sailing up to Australian and World championships.
Your local Wynnum Manly club focuses on training and social and intermediate competitive sailing. Regular sailing takes place in the Wynnum Wading Pool, Manly Boat Harbour and Sovereign Waters at Wellington Point.
Training is theoretical on the whiteboard and practical on the water. A large percentage of the training is on the water, with each of the students sailing an RC yacht.
The club provides radio-controlled yachts for newcomers to have a try to see if they would like to learn how to sail and race radio-controlled yachts. After a trial period, students are encouraged to purchase an RC yacht (approximately $300).
According to Russell, retirees make up a large portion of the members sailing during the week. In some ways, it is like a Mens’ Shed on water.
“The racing and social banter is a lot of fun. WMRMYC is known as the fun club,” said Russell.
“On the weekends, the younger members join in for some competitive racing. Both handicap (for those learning) and scratch racing events are held.
“If you are looking for a new pastime, sport, or social involvement, Radio Controlled Sailing could be right up your alley.”
Your local Wynnum Manly club can take you on a fun journey from knowing nothing about sailing to being a competitive racer at the level that you choose. Some of the WMRMYC members have competed at the world championships.
Enrolments are now open for the next 10-week sailing course, which begins on Tuesday, July 26, 2022.
WMRMYC offers an open invitation to anyone who wants to try radio sailing.
You can get more information from the club website http://www.wmrmyc.club/ or give the friendly Commodore, Russell, a call on 0401 641 443.
