The day before Christmas Eve saw ten young sailors reach the end of a five day course qualifying them as Trinidad & Tobago Sailing Association Level 2 Dinghy Instructors. The last three days of the course were held at the TTSA sailing school in Chaguaramas. As part of the new National Sailing Scheme, ten sailors (four from Vessigny and six from Chaguaramas) were put through their paces by TTSA’s visiting instructors, Steve Jackson and Seb Godsmark.
As well as being able to demonstrate sound sailing ability, the students were taught the basics of methods of instruction to enable them to pass on their sailing skills to others in a professional and knowledgeable way. In order to qualify for instructor training, the students had previously completed a power boat level 2 course and a safety boat operator course. In the New Year they had the chance to put their newly acquired skills to the test as the new TTSA sailing school term started on Saturday 16th January 2010. Children of all abilities from the age of 7 years and upwards were able to attend dinghy sailing lessons every Saturday and adults were able to enrol in lessons for beginners as well. As part of their ongoing training, the new instructors will also receive training in first aid and navigation in the new year. On the presentation of his course completion certificate, participant Alianson Thomas said, “This is all I wanted for Christmas!”
The New Year also saw the first ever TTSA power boat course open to the general public. On January weekends, TTSA planned to hold two power boat level 2 (PBL2) courses open to anyone wishing to take part for the value price of TT$1,000 including lunch and refreshments, with all equipment provided. Members of the public were invited to come and learn to drive a power boat safely and in accordance with international regulations. Successful students in the course receive a qualification which forms the basis for the International Certificate of Competence.
