Red and blue sails have been filling the horizon this summer as children learn to sail on Hilo Bay.
The annual Na Hoa Holomoku Yacht Club Keiki Summer Sailing Camp has been underway with about 26 kids attending the camp weekly.
Kids ages 8 to 18 learn how to sail a topper, which is small sailboat, within a week’s time.
“During camp, the kids learn knot- tying, the basics of sailing, how to read wind and water, water safety, and how to sail in various conditions,” said coach Rhonda Reel. “The toppers are great because they are made of plastic and won’t be damaged if they crash into the beach.”
While out on the water, kids pair up on their boats and maneuver around Hilo Bay regardless of the weather.
Many kids attend the camp throughout the summer and some spend just a week learning the basics.
“The core group are ages 9 to 12, and I guess that is just the perfect age to learn to sail, because they pick it up so fast,” Reel said. “Kids who have been attending camps for a while end up helping and becoming teachers themselves.”
Kids mostly practice with the toppers, but they also learn how to rig and sail a larger sailboat and Hawaiian sailing canoe.
Every morning, the kids start off in groups learning about different aspects of sailing, and then they take to the water and spend about two to three hours out in the bay.
To help beginners get used to sailing, coaches will show them what happens when they capsize and how to get out of the situation.
“I’ve worked with kids my whole life, and after everything I’ve taught, the biggest takeaway with sailing is their confidence level,” Reel said.
“Beginners can be scared, but after the experience, they are so confident that they ask to capsize themselves.”
The fourth week of camp is underway and the last three weeks of camp will begin Monday, July 11.
There are still slots open for summer camp. However, kids and adults can also look into joining the Na Hoa Holomoku Yacht Club for family sail days and sailing classes.
The club also hosts camps during every state Department of Education school break in the fall, winter, spring and summer.
Those interested in learning more or signing up for summer camp can find more information at http://www.hilo-sailing.org/ or email Reel at somlala2019@gmail.com.
Email Kelsey Walling at kwalling@hawaiitribune-herald.com
