Build a Boat Day

How has this idea enhanced your club's operation, etc.?

Each summer, the Bay Head Yacht Club Junior Sailing Program ends its season with a special event held at the head of the Barnegat Bay, directly off the BHYC Main Dock. Build a Boat Day was introduced to teach the juniors about sailing from a new angle. The children are encouraged, with a broad array of rules, to build a miniature boat from household items. They have to choose their materials wisely and use a design that will help them have the fastest boat among their peers.

How was this idea implemented, and what have been the club members' reactions?

Build a Boat day provides the BHYC Junior Sailors with a new insight into the sport. It enhances their skills in the program by giving them an understanding of how the boat truly works. Without them being in the boat to control it, they have to have a comprehensive understanding of wind, sails, weight, and other aspects of sailing. The children love Build a Boat day. They get to be creative with an “arts and crafts” project, work together with their families to build something special, learn something new, and win prizes. Parents also enjoy this day, as they get to witness how well their child really understands the concept of sailing, and they get to work with their child to come up with their creation!