#optimist – 150 Optimist sailors, with boats and parents in tow, are converging on Baltimore Sailing Club in West Cork today for what looks to be the largest turn out to date for the annual Optimist Spring training clinic.
Sailors from seven to fifteen years of age will sail in a range of groups, from the pre-regatta groups for those just starting out on their sailing career, to sailors who compete internationally as part of the Irish Optimist squad.
Traditionally, the week's coaching is provided by the best of coaches, and this year will be no different, with a mix of top Irish and international coaches arriving to give sailors a kickstart to the 2013 season.
There is a range of activities arranged, both on and off the water, including a fitness camp for children who are not sailing, a mid-week disco, and the traditional forum for parents and the Optimist Association (IODAI).