Laser Masters Pre-Worlds Training Camp

with Mark Bethwaite
August 22-23, 2009

Here's your chance to spend a weekend training with one of the legends of the sport in one of the legendary heavy air venues in the world. Whether you're tuning up for the 2009 Laser Master Worlds or just looking to take your game to the next level, the Laser Masters Pre-Worlds Training Camp with Mark Bethwaite is a unique opportunity to train and learn with one of the world's top master Laser sailors.

The clinic is open to master Laser sailors (age 35 and older) who have good boat handling skills and are comfortable in winds up to 25 knots. Enrollment is limited to 15 to ensure personal attention to every participant. Full rigs and Radials are both welcome.

Head Coach: Mark Bethwaite

Mark Bethwaite is the current world champion in the Laser Grand Masters division (age 55-64) and holds a total of six Laser Masters world championships. In addition, Mark is a two-time member of the Australian Olympic sailing team, former world champion in the J-24 class. He lives and sails in Sydney, Australia, and will be making his first appearance in the Gorge on his way to the 2009 Laser Masters Worlds in Halifax, Nova Scotia. This is a unique opportunity for local masters to train with a world-class heavy air sailor in a world-class heavy air venue!

Program

The Laser Masters Pre-Worlds Training Camp will focus on training and performance improvement strategies for master sailors. Special emphasis will be placed on upwind and downwind set-up and technique in big wind and waves, a typical condition for world championship venues, and one for which the Gorge is particularly suited! The program will combine onshore chalk talks and video presentations with on-the-water drills and short races. Optional Sunday program (depending on participant interest) could be a scenic and spectacular 18-mile run from Cascade Locks to Hood River.

Registration & Fees:

Clinic fee is $95, which includes coaching, lunch each day, and after-sailing snacks & beverages. To register online, click here. Enrollment is limited to 15 sailors, so sign up now!

Charters:

Charter boats are available through West Coast Sailing for $150 per day or $400 for a 3-day package (come early, stay late for an extra day of fantastic Gorge sailing!).

Visitor Information:

Cascade Locks is located in the heart of the beautiful Columbia River Gorge, 45 minutes east of Portland International Airport on Interstate 84. Cascade Locks and surrounding communities have a wide range of accommodations from camping to four-star resort hotels (see visitor information).

For more information:

Contact Bill Symes at bill@cgra.org.