Sailing Barnegat Bay, don't just be a spectator this summer

June 22, 2009 - PRLog -- One of the most beautiful sights to see on the bay is the graceful A Cat sail boats dancing across the water. Most landlubbers do not often get the chance to become part of the crew of one of these classic boats, but through the efforts of organizers John Coyle, Roy Wilkins, and local yacht clubs are seeking crews of all levels. The wooden A Cat sail boat has been a Barnegat Bay tradition for the past century, with a devoted global following. This year in effort to support youth, college and wooden boat sailing programs, several yacht clubs have come together to host, instruct and challenge would be sailors to the grand sport of competitive sailing.

The Southern Ocean County Chamber of Commerce members Brant Beach Yacht Club and Surf City Yacht Club are two of the coordinators who are working to make this event a fun introduction to A Cat Racing. "We are hoping to give sailors of all ages an opportunity to experience sailing on a 28 foot long, 48 foot high wooden A Cat", says Terry Moulton, coordinator representing the Surf City Yacht Club. Starting Sunday, August 9 boats will be towed to Surf City Yacht Club, then starting Monday, August 10; in the morning the Junior Members of the Surf City Yacht Club will be given rides and training on the A Cats. Followed in the afternoon by racing of local businesses and finally in the evening starting at 6pm,  the yacht club will open its doors to the public offering hot dogs, hamburgers and A Cat rides. Brant Beach Yacht Club will be hosting the activities on Wednesday August 12. With five clubs taking part, they each will arrange the morning and evening events to suit their programs.

It is easy for anyone to get involved. Families, businesses, and organizations are welcome to form a team. The organizers are hoping to have 5 or 6 A Cats be a part of this event. Teams are made up of ten individuals and charged $50 per person to race, there will be at least one A Cat representative aboard at all times. Fees to benefit Ocean County College Sailing Team, Tuckerton Seaport Wooden Boat School and club youth sailing programs. If you are looking for a team building experience, a family outing or a youth skill building activity this summer, then please contact Surf City Yacht Club Coordinator Terry Moulton at 609 661-2117, John Coyle 609 276-1549 or the Southern Ocean County Chamber of Commerce at 609 494 7211 or go to visitLBIregion.com.

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