March 2020

​Spring season at the Manatee River Pram Fleet is well underway. As I write this, Coach Lisa and a couple of sailors from our racing team are heading home from the Buccaneer Blast Regatta hosted by the Upper Keys Sailing Club. Regina Rettig sailed in the Opti fleet with 62 boats while Brodie competed in the Laser fleet with 10 boats.  The weekend started slow, with light air and a shifty breeze.  The opti course was overcrowded, but Regina held her own.  Over on the Laser course, Brodie was grinding it out in a tactical battle.  By Sunday, conditions had changed dramatically.  The wind was 15-17 knots with waves and some cold temperatures early on.  Brodie capitalized on the breeze and moved up in the fleet, finishing 4th overall!  We are so proud of Regina and Brodie for competing at this great regatta.  What a weekend!
 
Our recreational sailing program kicked off the spring season in March with Sunday Funday sailing.  This program offers a chance for our sailors to brush up on their skills, try helming a variety of boats, and most importantly, to have some fun while sailing! If you know a sailor that has already completed a learn to sail program and would like to get back on the water, let them know about this great opportunity. Cost is $200 per semester or $35 per session.  For more information, email [email protected].
 
Spring always makes me think of summer – and with that in mind, I must mention that online registration for summer camp is now open! At MRPF, we are honored to have the opportunity to introduce the youth of Manatee County to the joys and challenges of sailing.  Summer camp is the perfect place to learn to sail.  Besides meeting new sailors, we look forward to seeing some familiar faces who want to build on the skills they learned in prior years.  Registration for early sessions fills up quickly, so get your spot while you can by visiting www.manateeriverpramfleet.org.
 
We look forward to seeing you out on the water.