As I woke up and got in the car with my sailing bag packed, I knew I was ready for the CISA Clinic. The CISA Clinic, held at Alamitos Bay Yacht Club April 8-11, is one of the best clinics out there because of all the spectacular coaches and people who put the clinic together. I was anxious for what we were going to learn and who was going to be there. As all these questions went through my head, I thought, “Why am I doing this?” However, right away, I knew my answer. My answer was simple. I was doing the CISA Clinic to become a better, more competitive sailor. As I got out of the car I saw many people, some I didn’t know. Finally, I saw my skipper, Carolyn Smith, and we got the rigging started. There were many people there I knew. Fellow sailors from BYC included Ryan Davidson and Kieran Chung.
The clinic consisted of 4 days. Each day was a different type of sailing skill. In addition, before each day of sailing, everyone would start the day with exercising. Then we’d break off into our groups by types of boat we were sailing, have a chalk talk, and go out sailing. After a long day of sailing, everyone joined to eat dinner and then have a presentation after. On the last day of the clinic, a regatta was held. Ryan Davidson and Kieran Chung ended up 1st in the Club 420 Fleet and Carolyn Smith and I ended up 3rd in the CFJ Fleet. Overall, the clinic was not only a great way to improve our sailing, but also a great way to meet new people. I am so glad I was able to attend this clinic. It was a great experience to be a part of and I hope I can attend next year too.
A big thanks to BYC and the Maritime Sciences and Seamanship Foundation for supporting Ryan and me. Next up, Carolyn and I are traveling to Hingham, MA to compete in the Ida Lewis Regatta for the US Junior Women’s Doublehanded Championships. Wish us luck!