SCYA WOMEN’S SAILING CONVENTION DRAWS CROWD OF 200

The Southern California Yachting Association held its 21st Annual Women’s Sailing Convention on Saturday, February 6, 2010 at the Bahia Corinthian Yacht Club, Corona del Mar, sponsored by BoatU.S. and West Marine. This event, which was open to all women interested in sailing from novice / beginner to expert, drew a crowd of more than 200, despite inclement weather conditions and a tough economy.

The event maintained its multi-workshop format: attendees selected a combination workshop in areas that best fits their interest and ability, such as: Welcome Aboard (for beginners), Diesels, Going Up the Mast, Introduction to Racing, Tactics, Docking, Overboard Procedures, Suddenly Singlehanded Interactive, Weather, Sail Trim, Basic Navigation, Safety, Nighttime Sailing & Navigation (NEW), Hassle-Free Heads, Spinnaker Rigging, Offshore Cruising, and Introduction to Sailing. The workshops were presented by top women sailors from all over Southern California, many of whom are USCG Licensed Captains.

To top off the event, U.S.C.G. Captain Patricia Garfield was the featured evening speaker. A bluewater sailor who doubled handed the 2005 Transpac on her Catalina 47, Charmed Life, with Captain Diane Murray, Garfield owns her own yacht brokerage with offices in San Francisco, San Diego and Newport Beach.

“This event gives women an opportunity to meet many other women sailors, find out about existing women’s sailing organizations in their area, instructional programs available, and many other areas of interest for those who would like to do more — racing, cruising and day sailing." said Gail Hine, producer/director. "We had something meaningful for everyone. For those who are already involved but desire more, we offered some new areas of inspiration and instruction along with excellent networking opportunities.”

The 2011 date has already been set for February 5.

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