Written by Emory Heisler, photos by Mike Ferring
TEN NEW SAILORS entered the world on March 8, 2026, thanks to the return of the ASF Adult Learn to Sail class at Tempe Town Lake.
Gusty morning breezes at a “sporty” 10-15kts welcomed the students and volunteer coaches each morning creating exciting and challenging sailing – AND a few unplanned capsize/recovery drills, too. But despite the challenging winds, or maybe because of them, the students all left with smiles on their faces and the satisfaction of taking these first steps into the sailing life we all know and love.
That student joy and satisfaction stems in great measure from the 2:1 student to coach ratio used during the class, and of course the stars of ASF success – volunteer coaches. ASF wants to thank the entire team for helping get Adult Learn to Sail classes back on the water! AYC coaches: Barry Bond, Bill Feil, Emory Heisler, Dave Henning, Deniz Katar, Lafe Larson, Martin Lorch, Joel Oglesbee, plus Mike Ferring (photography) and Daniel McCormick from Tucson Sailing Club.
THANK YOU!
More photos from this weekend can be found on the AYC SmugMug.
And MORE ASF sailing classes are on their way soon! Kids Introduction to Sailing begins on March 21, and ASF Sailing Class schedules will be updated on the AYC website SAILING CLASSES page.
Are you interested in joining in on the fun? Contact the ASF team at ASF@ArizonaYachtClub.org to learn more about ASF programs and how you can help bring more sailors into the world.
