LSC Level 1 Sailing Certification

Note: This Certification is for Lansing Sailing Club use only and is not comparable to certification programs by U.S. Sailing or others.

Level 1 Sailing Certification entitles a member to sail a Club owned sailboat in light wind or "gentle breeze" conditions (up to approximately 12 mph with no whitecaps), provided the member also holds LSC Certification for that type of Club owned sailboat (Sunfish, Laser or Lightning). Junior Sailors holding this certification must have an adult available on shore to monitor the Junior Sailor. The adult must be able to provide assistance to the Junior Sailor if necessary.

Demonstrate the ability to tie a bowline, figure eight knot, square knot and cleat hitch.
While sailing, show how to bring the boat into the "safety position".
Show how to get out of "irons" by sailing the boat backwards and turning the boat until the wind comes across the side of the boat - then sailing the boat forward.
Show the ability to stop the boat at a mark or dock by turning the boat to a close reach and using the sail alternately as a means of propelling the boat and as a brake.
Sail to an upwind destination, demonstrating good tacking technique in which control of both the tiller and mainsheet is maintained while moving from one side of the cockpit to the other.
Demonstrate confidence to sail in congested situations including easing the mainsheet as necessary to facilitate turning the boat away from the wind when conditions keep the boat from turning using only the rudder.
Sail to a downwind destination, demonstrating good gybing technique in which control of both the tiller and mainsheet is maintained while moving from one side of the cockpit to the other.
Capsize the boat and demonstrate the ability to right the boat, climb back in and sail away.
Return to the launch area and bring the boat to a stop by turning it into the wind and getting out of the boat to tie it to a mark or dock.
Show an understanding of these five Rules of Sailing: 1 - Avoid collisions regardless who has right of way. 2 - Port tack boats must keep clear of starboard boats. 3 - Boats behind must keep clear of boats ahead. 4 - Boats to windward must keep clear of leeward boats. 5 - a boat with an inside overlap at two lengths from a mark has right of way over an outside boat.