The BC Sailing Mobile Optimist Sailing School (MOSS) was in the Fort last week.
The instructors from the program were giving introductory programs for area schools on Stuart Lake, teaching elementary school children basic sailing and water safety.
The group was hosted by the Stuart Lake Sailing Club, the area’s very own sailing organization, in order to foster interest in sailing and water sports and safety.
The one-day programs by MOSS introduces kids to boats and safety and then gives them a chance to try them out.
The students have the chance to take out small sailboats and kayaks while Canadian Yachting Association instructors guide them from a motorized zodiac.
The MOSS instructors will also be returning to once again offer a week-long course later in the summer, also hosted by the sailing club.
The program was offered last year for youth between the ages of six and 15 and was very well-received, with many of the students learning some valuable leadership skills as well.
One program participant also then attended a sailing program off of Vancouver Island with the help of a scholarship from the Stuart Lake Sailing Club.
Last week Sowchea sent students from their Grade 4/5 class to the program, with Principal Cam McCormick, himself an avid kayaker, excited about what the kids could learn through last week’s program.
“It’s great … the goal is water safety, which is a pretty good thin to teach in northern B.C.,” said McCormick, especially for a community based on a large and beautiful lake.
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