Local Towns Taking Part in Junior Sailing Program

For youngsters who are looking for fun in a sport that does not involve line drills, running laps or calisthenics, the Friends of the Belmar Harbor has partnered with the Shark River Roundtable -- with representation from Avon, Belmar, Bradley Beach, Neptune City, Neptune Township and Wall Township -- to offer a threeweek instructional junior sailing program again this summer.

Each town will offer eight residents, ages 10-16, a sponsorship to participate in the instructional sailing program free of charge. All equipment will be supplied. Transportation to and from Belmar's L Street Beach will be the responsibility of attendees.

The program will be offered at the Belmar Marina from 12:30 until 4 p.m., Monday through Friday, Aug. 3 through 21.

Those interested must be able to participate in the entire three-week program, have parental consent, and have transportation to and from the marina every day. The program is for beginners and participants must know how to swim. Each town will determine their eligible participants individually.

The instructional sailing program will culminate with light competition in a Mayors' Trophy Regatta race on Aug. 21, highlighting the skills learned during the program.

Interested applicants should contact the respective representatives in their town on or before July 1.

Those in Avon should call Doug Carter at 732-272-6751; in Belmar, Mike Campbell at 732-681-3700; in Bradley Beach, Cynthia Brady at at 732-776-2993; in Neptune City, Tom Adcock at 732-774- 0089; in Neptune Township, Dawn Thompson at 732-869- 1202; and Ed Grill, Wall Township at 732-449-8444 ext. 250.

Through this program, the Friends of the Belmar Harbor hope to introduce participants to some watercraft skills, and share their enjoyment of being on the water.