looking to get started

[scottwolowiec]

Hi, i just graduated college in chicago and always wanted to learn to sail. basically, i have no experience, and very little money. does anybody have any advice on where to get started keeping in mind that all i have is a very strong will and passion for learning new skills? there is very little advice out there besides sign up for classes or join a club. basically, i'm lookikng to crew for just about anybody anywhere in chicago as long as they know that will need to learn as i go along.

any advice would be greatly appreciated, thanks
Scott Wolowiec

[Faster]

There are members here more local than I, but you don't generally have to JOIN a club.. find a marina or yacht club that has a local/casual (or not!) racing program and ask around for a ride.

If you prove eager to learn, willing to work, and - most importantly - show up when you say you will, there should be no problem getting a regular ride. This way you can sail pretty much for free and there's nothing like racing experience to teach you what works and what doesn't... it's also a neat social situation where you'll make connections for other rides..

[garyguss]

Go here and see these guys ....
CCYC Crew School

My old yacht club of 40 years ago, not snooty and they'll show you the ropes

[bshipp]

Offering to help with basic boat maintenance goes a long way, too! "Gee, do you need some help sanding and painting the bottom?" always endears me to potential crew. Fortunately you're past prime boating prep season but remember it for the fall

[QuickMick]

I used to sail the beer can races out of belmont harbour... lots of fun and if you ask around your circle of friends im sure you will find a connect to someone who has a boat/wants enthusiastic crew.... there may be opps down by the old midway airport too, but up at belmont they have a bar... always a good place to meet folks.