New Member Induction & Club Boat Use

Welcome to Telford Sailing Club.

This page explains how new members can get sailing, when club sailing normally takes place, and how members can use club boats.

When Members Can Sail

Members can sail during the club’s normal sailing sessions and organised sailing days.

The main club sailing day is usually Sunday and Wednesday afternoons, and members are encouraged to come along regularly. There may also be sailing on other published club days, depending on the club calendar, weather, and whether other members are present.

Before travelling, members should check the latest club calendar or ask in the TSC WhatsApp group to see who else is planning to sail.

Using the TSC WhatsApp Group

Telford Sailing Club now uses the TSC WhatsApp group as the main way for members to ask about club boat use and sailing arrangements.

Members can use the group to check:

  • whether other members are planning to sail
  • whether a club boat is available
  • which boat may be suitable
  • whether conditions are appropriate
  • whether help is available with rigging, launching or recovery

New members are encouraged to use the WhatsApp group before using a club boat, especially if they are newly qualified, inexperienced, or unfamiliar with a particular boat.

Members can also ask questions through the club’s Facebook group, but replies there may take a little longer. For anything time-sensitive, such as checking who is sailing or asking about using a club boat, the WhatsApp group is usually the best option.

Club Boats

The club has a range of boats available for members to use.

Single-Handed Boats

  • Optimist x3
  • Laser Pico x5
  • Topper x3
  • Laser x2

Double-Handed Boats

  • Miracle x2
  • Omega x1

Who Can Use a Club Boat?

Club boats are available for members to use, subject to:

  • boat availability
  • suitable weather conditions
  • the sailor’s ability and experience
  • safe use of the boat and equipment
  • normal club sailing arrangements

Members should only use a boat that is suitable for their ability and the conditions on the day.

All Sailors should always sail when at least on other sailor is sailing (buddy sailing policy)
Less experienced sailors should sail when other experienced members are present and should ask for advice before choosing a boat.

Beginners and Improvers

New sailors should build experience gradually and work towards becoming independent.

Beginners and improvers should aim to attend regular club sailing days where other members are available to offer guidance.

Useful areas to develop include:

  • rigging and de-rigging
  • launching and recovery
  • tacking and gybing
  • controlling boat speed
  • returning to shore safely
  • capsize recovery
  • understanding wind strength and direction
  • choosing the right boat for the conditions

Safety

Safety is the responsibility of every member.

Before sailing, members should:

  • check the weather forecast
  • consider wind strength and direction
  • wear a suitable buoyancy aid
  • use a boat suitable for their ability
  • check that the boat and equipment are complete
  • never sail alone
  • ask for advice if unsure

Members should not go afloat if the conditions are beyond their ability.

Buoyancy Aids and Clothing

A suitable buoyancy aid must be worn when sailing.

Members should also wear clothing suitable for the conditions. Even in warm weather, sailors may get wet or cold.

Recommended items include:

  • wet shoes or suitable footwear
  • waterproof or windproof outer layer
  • warm layers in cooler weather
  • sun protection in hot weather
  • towel and full change of clothes

Choosing the Right Boat

Laser Pico

A good option for beginners, juniors and lighter sailors. Stable, simple and suitable for building confidence.

Topper

A popular single-handed boat for juniors and smaller sailors. Good for learning and improving boat handling.

Laser

A more powerful single-handed boat, best suited to confident sailors with suitable experience.

Miracle

A double-handed dinghy suitable for sailing with another member. Useful for developing skills in a more stable boat.

Omega

A larger double-handed dinghy, useful for training, family sailing and supported sailing, depending on conditions.

Looking After Club Boats

After using a club boat, members should:

  • return the boat to its correct place
  • put sails, foils, rudders and equipment away properly
  • secure the boat correctly
  • leave the area tidy
  • report any damage, faults or missing equipment through the club’s normal communication channels

Club boats are shared by all members, so please leave them ready for the next person to use.

Getting More Involved

The best way to improve is to sail regularly, ask questions, and join in with club activities.

Members can also get involved with:

  • social sailing
  • racing
  • training sessions
  • junior sailing
  • boat maintenance
  • club events

Telford Sailing Club is a friendly club, and experienced members are usually happy to help new members get started safely and confidently.

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