Do any of you sail? My husband and I were walking along the river after a Sunday lunch when suddenly the river was filled with the beautiful sight of billowing white sails from one side of the river to the other. We stopped walking and stared at the awesome sight of two dozen or so sailboats being expertly maneuvered in and around each other, sails almost skimming each other as they passed.
We sat mesmerized on the riverbank for over an hour watching wind, water, sailcloth and human strength combine to create a beautiful ballet of skill and nature. The best part of this magnificent choreography was that it was being carried out by people who were mostly in my age group. They were not buff 20-somethings. They were mature people, gray haired and waistless, having the time of their lives.
As always when I see people doing something that looks like fun, I decided I must learn how to do this. I marched myself into the Sailing Club and asked for an application form. “Oh, I’m sorry,” the little old sailor who runs the place told me, “our last class ended today. Please join us next year.”
NEXT YEAR!! I may not be here NEXT YEAR! I want to learn now!
I haven’t figured out how to do that yet, but I’m dying to know if any of you sail and whether I’m too old to learn, too decrepit to do it safely, and if it’s too expensive to even think about taking up as a hobby.
I have the river. I have the love of everything aquatic. I just need to know if I have the money and the necessary strength at 57 to take up this new hobby. If you’re a sailor who knows the ropes, post your comments or email me, Matey!
I'm 58 and sailing is my passion. Of course you are young enough to take up sailing. Depending on what kind of boat you choose I am sure you will find something that suits your pocket, your fitness level and your appetite for adventure.
Posted by: Tillerman | August 15, 2006 at 10:00 PM