College of Charleston sailing clinics begin this weekend

The waterways and beaches have been crowded as temperatures steadily climb in the Lowcountry.

Besides being indoors with the air conditioner blasting, being on the water is the only way to enjoy your summer days and evenings.

Charleston offers a variety of opportunities for you to get on the water. If you are new to sailing in Charleston, I urge you to visit www.sailcharleston.org to find out how you can learn to sail or get more involved in the local sailing community.

Advanced youth clinics
Starting this weekend, the College of Charleston will host a series of clinics for youth sailors that will run through Aug. 5. On Saturday and Sunday, the college will hold a Laser clinic that will focus on boat-handling, boat speed and other crucial components to be successful in this class. Boats are available on a first-come, first-served basis for a fee of $30. If you would like to bring your own boat, there is plenty of space. For more information, contact Greg Fisher at (410) 212-4916.

CORA summer series
There are two more races remaining in the first half of the Charleston Ocean Racing Association summer series.

“Wednesday night races are always a great work-week stress reliever, and the buoy racing is very popular among sailors,” said Lacy Terwilliger, the CORA commodore.

Terwilliger said spectators can watch from the public dock at the downtown waterfront park or get involved in the racing by walking over to the Carolina Yacht Club dock to watch the starts. Racing will resume on July 11, starting at 6 p.m. For more information, go to www.charlestonoceanracing.org.

LIME dinner for CCS
I am excited about the upcoming LIME (local, impromptu, moveable, evening) event to benefit Charleston Community Sailing. I have been to several of these LIME dinners in the past and have had an amazing experience. Not only was the food and wine delicious, but you will make new friends and help support a local charity. The LIME event will be held July 14 from 6-10 p.m. The dinner will feature chef Jeffrey Myers of Poogan’s Porch and wine connoisseur Malia Camens. For more information visit www.charlestoncommunitysailing.org.

Coming Up
July 20-21: Charleston Yacht Club Open Regatta

July 28-29: Carolina Yacht Club Open Regatta

Jessica Koenig is Executive Director of Charleston Community Sailing. Contact her at jessica@charlestoncommunitysailing.org