Cadets Fly Across the Water!

Posted at 10:02 am on 27th June, 2023

More Afloat Training for Wellacre’s CCF Cadets

Afloat training has continued for Wellacre’s Combined Cadet Force (CCF) Unit as further groups of cadets have travelled to Southport Watersports Club on the 14th and 21st June, accompanied by SSI Ward. 

As part of CCF’s programme, cadets learn sailing skills and this involves a visit to the watersports club to experience sailing a small boat called a dinghy. 

The day began with an introduction to the dinghy and the essential controls delivered by Chief Petty Officer, David Urie.  Basic instructions included steering by handling the sail and the foils (centreboard), and side-to-side balance. 

Working in pairs, students took to the water and put their learning into practice!  They also learned about utilising optimum conditions and wind direction in order to handle the dinghy’s sail and rudder - with one cadet on each. 

SSI Mr Ward, said:

“Some of our cadets were new to the water and gained confidence with their new sailing skills. For others, this was another chance to practise sailing a dinghy and, when they caught the wind, they were really flying across the lake!  Teamwork and communication, as usual, was exceptional.”