2022 BOAST Program -- A Few Slots Still Available
Published 12:35pm on 16 Dec 2021
2022 BOAST Program Apply Now for a Chance to SAIL SAIL SAIL to your hearts content!
OWSAs BOAST program (formerly BOAT) is at the very heart of the organization and its mission: to get more women sailors on the water and owning their own boats!
We have three small boats moored on the Columbia River that you can own and sail for a whole year. This is your opportunity to test the waters find out what it is like to own and maintain a boat as well as build your knowledge and sailing skills. Beginners can progress to Intermediate, Intermediates can progress to Mentors, and all can advance their skills towards becoming Skippers and/or First Mates.
I will share my personal story here to help inspire you to give it a shot. I was a bit nervous to apply, thinking I didnt yet have enough experience/skill to become a skipper. Well, guess what? This is the best way to gain exactly that experience and boost those skills! Plus make lifelong friends in the process! By the end of the year I found myself certified for First Mate and much more confident with my sailing skills AND my abilities to maintain, repair, and troubleshoot as needed. I also realized that I really do know a lot about sailing, and am excited to further mentor people on their journey. I enjoyed BOAST so much that I volunteered to chair the program for next year. I can't wait to meet you!
We will have a full orientation in early March, followed by many opportunities for education, racing, and more. Imagine a summer picnic on Government Island with your new BOASTIE friends! All boats were inspected and repaired prior to racing in SYSCO races during the 2020 season, and further safety-related enhancements are underway. BOAST is a real value compared to joining the Island Sailing Club or paying for your own moorage. Further details are available on the website and applications are available in the Member Portal.
Questions? Email me at boast@oswa.net.
Meredith Hall First Mate, Boast Chair
