Williamstown Sailing Club commodore Lois Hunt took up sailing shortly before her 50th birthday.
“My boat’s called Slingshot and I can tell you it’s not a very fast slingshot,” she said.
Ms Hunt is inviting people to see what all the fuss is about at the club’s free ‘discover sailing day’ from 10am-3pm on October 26.
“That day is geared specifically for people who’ve never sailed before and want to have a try at it,” Ms Hunt said.
“The idea is to give people the opportunity to see what it’s like to get on a boat and also to realise that it’s not necessarily an expensive sport.”
Ms Hunt said it was a misconception that sailing was only for rich people.
“Our annual sailing fee, to be a member for a year, is $250 for an adult – and you don’t have to own your own boat. It’s actually a cheaper sport than a lot of others, especially for kids.’’
Ms Hunt said there was no upper age limit for sailing, provided those taking part were a little bit mobile.
She said she loved sailing as a form of exercise and escape.
“It’s just getting out in the fresh air. No matter what the weather’s like, I don’t mind.
“And I think it’s just seeing Melbourne from a different aspect – it’s totally different seeing Melbourne from the water.’’
The club will also run ‘learn to sail’ courses for teenagers and adults in November and December. It will introduce a program for children aged 6-12 next February.
The opening of sailing season will be celebrated at the club from 1pm this Saturday.
For more details about the club, email training@williamstownsailingclub.org.au.
