NOTE: Click on any picture to see a larger size and more commentary. Pictures by Terry Kleiman

Lisa Winters wanted to try Laser Sailing. Lori Katz volunteered a boat and Mike Moody volunteered to coach. Pat Dolan and Terry Kleiman volunteered to go in the Safety Boat and document the event.

On a Reach and Moving Fast. Coach Moody is trying to keep up.
Lisa began sailing at the Lansing Sailing Club this last Spring, participating in the Crew Seminar and then crewing regularly with Lori Katz on Terry Kleiman's Lightning. Since that time she has become a very capable sailor, getting more and more tiller time in the Lightning. Now it was time to spread her wings even more.

Ease the Main!!!
It doesn't take long to learn that the rudder on a Laser has limited usefulness. Wind in the sail often dictates how the boat will behave. With the wind blowing 10 mph, Lisa discovered how important it is to ease the main if you want to bear away.

    
Lisa Leaves the Beach Area On Her First Laser Sail
After rigging the boat and launching using a dolly, Mike gave Lisa an orientation to sailing the boat including some discussion and practice using simulated capsizes. Then Lisa headed out for her first sail.

Pressure on the centerboard, recovers the Laser from a capsize.
There was plenty of wind and the inevitable happened. This was no problem for Lisa however. She was quickly on the centerboard and had the boat upright in short order.

Checking for boat traffic, docks and other obstacles on the way back to the club.
It was another beautiful day on Lake Lansing, made even more spectacular by a successful first venture in solo sailing - and on a boat requiring athletic qualities. Quite an accomplishment Lisa. Congratulations!