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t worked so well last year that the Youth Sailing Camp returns to Oriental this month. Jim Edwards, who last year organized the school and got the community to come forward with boats, money and manpower, says that once again, for 8 weeks this summer, kids from 8-15 will be learning to sail. The one-week sessions, running through August, start up on June 15.

Alexis and NIcole Edwards with one of the Optimist dinghies from the youth sailing camp their father, Jim, is offering again this year..

Optimist dinghies, waiting to get on the water for this year’s classes.

“We’ll be back at Grace’s, “ Edwards says, referring to Grace Evans’ yard right next to the Midyette Street small boat ramp where the students launch their Optimist class dinghies in to the water.

By late May he already had 80 places filled. Last year, there were 92 students. He’s hoping for 125 this year.

Jim Edwards and Grace Evans in Grace’s yard with one of the Optimist dinghies used in the Youth Sailing Camp.

Most of the students will be taking the lessons in the brightly colored, locally-crafted Optimist class dinghies. But in order to accommodate more students and give the older ones a bigger boat, Jim says he will also have at least three Sunfish sailboats available.

“Kids that are returning and are too big for the Optis need something to grow in to. The Sunfish are the next step up.” ( Jim says he is looking for 2 or 3 more of the Sunfish, either to be on loan or given to the sailing camp.)

Some of the Youth Sailing Camp instructors on a recent afternoon off of Smith Creek, where the sailing camps dinghies are launched.

As was the case last year, the classes cost $200 a week, with a 20% discount for second siblings. ($360 for two) Most of the June classes are filled. Edwards says he’s still getting phone calls from parents. Some are asking whether any scholarships are available to defray the cost. Jim says he doesn’t want to turn away any kids who want to learn to sail. Further, he’s trying to get the word out to as many kids — and parents.

Jim Edwards gets energized when he talks about sailing.

Continuing in the spirit of last year, a number of local residents and businesses are contributing funds —hundreds of dollars apiece — to the scholarship fund. Those with questions or donations, may reach Jim at 474-6000 or visit the Youth Sailing Camp website by clicking here.

The dinghy rack in Grace’s yard framed by an Optimist sail.