Introduction to Windsurfing

Fri 21-May-2021

17:30-19:30

Registration Start:	20-May-2021 at 00:00
Registration End:	20-May-2021 at midnight

Description

The class will start with the rigging process and a general board handling demo. We will try to give students as much board time on the water as possible. However, since we have four boards available for the class, we will take turns out on the water. You will get wet!

Class date: Friday, May 21st

Class time: 5:30pm - 7:30pm

Registration for this class will run from Midnight (12:00:01 am) to 11 am on Thursday, May 20th

Prerequisites:

You must have a swim rating and have taken a learn-to-sail class in order to sign up.
You must be a current MIT student or MIT COVID Pass participant to be confirmed.
You must be able to swim — no exceptions. You should be able to meet the standard MITNA swimming requirement, but do not need to present proof.
Pre-registration is required. Click the "Registration" link above in the red menu bar (when available) to register.

Registration:

Registering for this event does not confirm your entry into the class. You will receive an email stating whether you have been confirmed or not. Class size is limited to 6 participants.

Registration for this class will run from Midnight (12:00:01 am) to 11 am on Thursday, May 20th. Click the "Registration" link above in the red menu bar (when available) to register.

Confirmations for class spots will be first-come first serve.

Steps to take before class:

Please make sure to watch the intro to windsurfing rigging video here (before class, link below). This is a detailed explanation of the rigging process. There’s no need to memorize everything in it, but it will give you a good head start, which means more time on the water... http://sailing.mit.edu/videos/windsurfing-beginner.php .
Be very comfortable getting wet: you will do a lot of swimming during this class! (bring a towel) We have a hot water shower!
Water temperatures are around 62 degrees F (17 degrees C), and air temperature will be around 70 degrees F (22 degrees C) and cloudy. Wetsuits are optional, but highly recommend synthetic leggings/long sleeves to prevent chill.

You must bring a valid MIT ID and complete your daily health attestation before arriving.

When learning to windsurf it is very useful to understand the basic ideas behind sailing. Please be fully proficient with the following terms as they apply to windsurfing:

Tacking and jibing.
Understanding of going upwind and downwind.
Know the major parts of a rig: main sail, boom, downhaul, outhaul

NOTE : If wind/weather conditions are not favorable, this event may get postponed.

PRO-TIP: Footwear is not necessary, but helpful. Even hiking sandals give extra grip, however surfing booties keep your feet warm on cold days.

For more information, visit http://sailing.mit.edu/windsurfing/

Organizers

Questions about this event should be directed to the organizer(s): Hannah Agate, SHELLI ORZACH