| Sailing is an activity that very few people are familiar | | | | fleet of Optimist. There are many accomplished sailors |
| with. There are many reasons for this. Firstly, generally | | | | who had started in their early childhood sailing the |
| human beings have an inherent fear of the seas. This | | | | Optimist. In the SAFYC (Singapore Armed Forces |
| may stems from previous phobias or plain ignorance. | | | | Yacht Club), the GKA (Gets Kids Afloat) program is a |
| Although the sea is full of colorful fauna and creatures, | | | | very popular course. They are usually runs at |
| many still fear the unknowns leering in the seas. The | | | | maximum capacity. In fact, Singapore has several |
| gruesome scenes in movies like the Jaws one to three | | | | world class champion Optimist sailors such as Sean |
| disproportionately magnify this fear. | | | | lee and Griselda Khng. |
| Secondly, many also fear the bottomless depths of | | | | What are the preparations that a young Optimist sailor |
| the seas. Unlike in the swimming pools where the | | | | need in order to sail safely? Booties are essential. This |
| depths are clearly marked on the side of the pool. | | | | protects the feet especially if the boat is launched |
| Additionally, there are many swimmers around when | | | | from the beach. It will also prevent slips when the |
| you are in trouble. | | | | boats are launched in the marinas, usually from a |
| Thirdly, sailing looks complex. There are many ropes | | | | slipway into the sea. Protecting the eyes from the |
| on board which looks like sphagetti. It is laborious to | | | | harmful UV rays is critical. Sailors must wear |
| trace which ropes control that parts of the boat. Finally, | | | | sunglasses with UV coating at all times on the waters. |
| it is not cheap to own a boat. In addition, there are also | | | | This is important because the reflection from the sea |
| mooring charges to be considered. | | | | surface also cause discomfort to the eyes since it is |
| Sailing enthusiasts can start with the dinghy. For | | | | likely that they spend many hours on the water. |
| children, the Oppy (affectionately coined by the British) | | | | Protective clothing is also required to accord protection |
| is the most suitable. It is almost unsinkable with its | | | | to the exposed upper and lower limbs. The Neilpryde |
| inflatables. It is light and a child can easily handle without | | | | range of apparel is also very popular with sailors in |
| undue physical exertion. The sail area is small; hence | | | | Singapore. Last but not least, broad rim cap is also part |
| the boat will not sail very fast. This makes the Optimist | | | | of the essential attire for the sailor. |
| very popular with kids. In Singapore, we have a big | | | | |