Manual

University of Wisconsin Madison

Ground School Manual

& Safety Rules 2013An orientation to the Hoofer Sailing Club

Instruction program

Meet people * Have fun* Learn to Sail

www.HooferSailing.org

Hoofer Sailing Club

Ground School Manual

USEFUL CONTACT INFORMATION

Hoofer Sailing Web Site (kickoffs, weather radar, manuals & more)www.hoofersailing.orgSailing Lessons Web Site (sign up for lessons, check ratings and work hours)www.lessons.hoofersailing.org

Hoofer Sailing Wiki Site (BOC minutes, general club information) http://wiki.hoofersailing.orgHoofer Youth Web site (Youth registration, youth information) www.hooferyouth.orgHoofer Sailing Shop

263-3435

Lakefront Supervisor (Interim position during renovation) 219-4572Outdoor Programs Office (general Hoofer info, and membership processing)262-1630

Dave Elsmo, Head of Instruction, headofinstruction@hoofersailing.org262-1630Nicholas Grundl Commodorecommodore@hoofersailing.orgNick Burger Vice-Commodorevc@hoofersailing.orgPeter KapurLessons CoordinatorLessons@hoofersailing.orgIan Walter Youth Director Youth@hoofersailing.orgPeter Kapur ASA Coordinator Asa@hoofersailing.orgHoofer Conference Sailing Coordinator Conference@hoofersailing.org SAILING HOURS2013The Hoofer Sailing Club has lessons 7 days a week starting as early as 9 (or earlier). General recreational sailing hours match the hours of University Lifesaving Station (http://www.ehs.wisc.edu/lake-lakeemergencies.htm). All equipment is locked at sunset. Note that the club will not open till April 24th. Lifesaving hours are:

Spring Wednesday - Sunday (Closed Mondays and Tuesdays)

April 3 April 28 12 PM 8 PM

May 1 May 2412:30 PM 8:30 PMSummer Memorial Day Mid-September, Open 7 days a week

May 25 July 21 11 AM 9:00 PM

July 22 August 1110:30 AM- 8:30 PM

August 12 September 210 AM 8:00 PMFall Wednesday - Sunday (Closed Mondays and Tuesdays starting Sept. 16)

September 3 September 15 (open 7 days/week)11:30 AM 7:30 PM

September 18 September 2911:00 AM 7:00 PM

October 2 October 13 10-30 AM 6:30 PM October 16 - October 27 10 AM 6:00 PMCREDITS

Created by Kurt KummerApril 1992; Revised by Jim Rogers 1992-2005, by Mike Larsen 2005, by Brian Borkovec 2006-09, by Dave Elsmo 2011, Brittney Rathsack 2012, and by Peter Kapur 2011-13.Copyright 2009 by Hoofer Sailing Club. Madison, WI. Table of Contents

Part One

An Introduction3Welcome to the Hoofer Sailing Club3Volunteers Keep the Club Running 4Social and Special Events are for Everyone 4UW Sailing Team/Hoofer Youth Program5Instruction6

Getting Started in Lessons7Heavy Weather Test Out Procedure8Physical Limitations and Sailing9Donations..................................................................................................................................................................................................................................9Fast Track Windsurfing10Fast Track Sailing10Now That I Have My Rating What Do I Do?11How is my Skill Development in Instruction Recorded?11Conference Sailing11Racing12Meet People----Have Fun!12Creating a Positive Learning Environment12Giving Feedback13Ratings Flow Chart14Part TWO15Hoofer Sailing Club Safety Rules15Hoofer Sailing Club Leadership Structure..16Hoofer Sailing Club General Information and Safety Rules 16Safety Light and Flag Regulations17Safety Rules17Right-of-Way Rules18How Many People Can Come Aboard?19

Payment for Penalty Work Hours19Sailing While UW Lifesaving Station is Closed20Enforcing the Safety Rules20Boat Priority Rules20Boat Usage Policies20Appendix A: Instruction20Appendix B: Undergrad Racing Team Policy21Appendix C: Windsurfing Lake Leader Policy21Appendix D: Keelboat Policy22Appendix E: Mendota Yacht Club Racing24Appendix F: Snowkiting

24Appendix G: Firearms Policy25Appendix H: Outdoor Programs Office Information25Lakefront Emergency Plan.26Part One: An IntroductionWelcome to the Hoofer Sailing Club

The Hoofer Sailing Club is for you and your friends!

As a membership-run organization supported by membership dues and donations, we offer a truly astonishing array of activities to our members and their guests: lessons, socials, a place to meet with friends, organized non-competitive events, racing, sailing, windsurfing and the Hoofer Youth Program. There is so much available that it can be a bit overwhelming at first. Thats why we have kickoffs, Ground School, and this manualto make it easy for you to get the most out of what is available.

The Sailing Club is open to the public!Anyone with Wisconsin Union privileges can join the Hoofer Sailing Club by paying membership dues. University of Wisconsin-Madison students are automatically Union members and can join Hoofers directly. UW-Madison faculty and staff can either pay a 25% surcharge on membership fees or join the Union. You can get an introductory first-time Union membership for $30, or a full one- year membership for $50. Wisconsin Union membership is open to all adults, who can then join the Hoofer Sailing Club. Call (608) 262-2263 or visit www.union.wisc.edu/membership for further information on joining the Wisconsin Union.

Hoofers is ASA certified!

The American Sailing Association (ASA) is an association of sailors, professional sailing instructors, sailing schools and charter companies of which Hoofers is a proud member. ASA Sailing Schools have met rigorous standards which are internationally recognized. People choose ASA sailing schools because they want to follow a proven curriculum in a professional, supportive, learning environment under the direction of certified sailing instructors. If you desire professional instruction that will enable you to gain the skills to charter boats worldwide, then Hoofers is the place for you!The Sailing Club is open year round!

Spring, summer, and fall is a happening place down at the club with sailing lessons, regattas, socials, and much more! Come winter, the fun does not stop. The Sailing Club teaches the Winter Snow Kiting program offering lessons mid-fall to early spring with riding taking place on the frozen lake during the winter. Additionally, the club also sponsors a Winter Education Series and socials still abound throughout the winter!

Volunteers Keep the Club Running

The club functions through involvement of its members. Volunteering is a means by which the club keeps you involved in the upkeep and general maintenance of club equipment, running of the club, and organizing socials. Ask the Boathouse clerk or any instructor on how to get involved. Work parties are posted online on the lessons website. Volunteer hours can be completed in many ways including:

Pier-in and pier-out, working socials, data entry, sailboat upkeep, web development, building projects, race committee, event assistance, marketing, and more! Important!* When you complete either four or eight work hours you are eligible to receive a work hour refund. To claim this refund simply visit the Outdoor Programs office (open M-F 9:00-5:00pm) and fill out a Work Hours Refund Form. You will receive your refund within 4-6 weeks. Work Refunds are available for Annual, Summer, and Academic Year memberships only!!Socials and Special Events are for Everyone

It has often been said that the sailing club is really a social club with a sailing problem!! One of the best features of the Hoofer Sailing Club is the ability to meet people through the combination of sailing and social events. Most events are announced on the club calendar board in the tunnel across from the Boathouse during summer and are also posted on the Hoofer website at www.HooferSailing.org.

Come down for weekly Friday night socials, join a team for Pirates Day, and sign up for the week-long Commodores Cup. If you want to meet people, get involved!Friday Night Socials

Friday night is social/party night at Hoofers. Come on down for some food, music, and take in a beautiful sunset! Outdoor socials usually run from mid-May through the end of September, before moving to local establishments the rest of the year. Helping cook, serve, or clean-up is also a great way to meet people, have a good time, and get in some of your work hours for the season. Dont forget to invite some of your friends to a social! Note: Food is only free for club members.

Special EventsSpecial events occur throughout the season, with highlights including Pirates Day and Commodores Cup. Pirates Day occurs every year the Saturday of Fathers Day weekend. It involves an on-water treasure hunt, food, festivities, and lots of socialization! Commodores Cup is a weeklong event, occurring at the end of July. Teams compete in sailing events, on-land events, and other non-sailing friendly competition. Food and socials occur every night, with the week culminating in the Commodores Ball, a formal dance in the Great Hall. Sign up by yourself or with friends to join a team. UW Sailing Team

If you are an undergraduate student who knows the basics of sailing, wants to learn rapidly, and is somewhat athletic, you may be interested in joining the UW Sailing Team. The UW Sailing Team is active during the academic year with many regattas scheduled on and off Lake Mendota. Check out www.uwsailingteam.org for more information.

Hoofer Youth Program

The Hoofer Youth Program is extremely active in the summer offering quality on-the-water instruction with a focus on fun and learning. One and two-week programs are offered throughout the summer in sailing, windsurfing, keelboat sailing, hybrid racing, kayaking, and canoeing for youth ages 10-18. Anyone may join the Hoofer Youth Program. Additionally, the youth program hires a few high school students to serve as youth assistants during the summer earning a free club membership and valuable work experience. Visit www.hooferyouth.org for more information or call 608-262-1630 to request an information and registration brochure. Register early, as spots fill up quickly!!

Part Two: InstructionAn Overview of Instruction at Hoofers

We wish you the very best as you sail, have fun, learn, and expand your horizons with us. Approach instructors, OPO clerks, or other club members on the lakefront for assistance or any questions. The Outdoor Programs Office at the Memorial Union can answer your questions or direct you to club leaders if you need additional assistance. Please phone (608) 262-1630.

Unlimited sailing instruction is available to members. The instruction staff conducts about 2,000 beginning and intermediate adult lessons each year and over 40 one and two-week Hoofer Youth Program sessions. During the sailing season, these are available at just about any time on any day of the week during daylight hours, with most lessons scheduled for evenings and weekends when there is the highest demand.

Anyone can learn to sail. Most people who enter our program have never sailed before. Typically, these new members learn to confidently skipper various boats and windsurf in heavy wind conditions by the end of their first year. With some practice and dedication anyone can succeed in our program. Most people choose to begin on our small boats, Badger Techs, but you may also start with Windsurfing or follow the keelboat track. Please see our flowchart on page 11 for more information. Participating in the instruction program is key! Lessons, test-outs, special topic clinics, and ratings lead to many other enjoyable activities. We try to make sure you have fun along the way too. Lessons are a great place to meet new friends and find out more about other activities that might interest you. Lessons and test outs also lead to "ratings."

Ratings allow you to skipper or crew certain craft under certain conditions, and to take boats out on your own. With the right ratings you can race, sail in heavy wind, take friends out to day sail, or skipper in organized events like Commodore's Cup and Pirate's Day. Ratings also serve as prerequisites for more advanced lessons.

The fun continues as the challenge increases in advanced lessons. You may soon find yourself sailing some of the most fun craft available anywhere: short boards, Badger Sloops, 420s, scows, J-22s, and large keelboats. You may decide to permanently take up sailinga sport that provides a lifetime of challenges and rewards because it takes a lifetime to master. You may even go on to win Olympic sailing medals as some Hoofer alumni have already done. No matter how far you go with Hoofers, you will experience excitement, challenge and fun!If you already know how to sail you can be out on the water as soon as you "test out" through the fast track system. This system helps new members with prior experience to move more quickly through the program until an appropriate level is reached. The fast-track system is explained later in this manual.

Resources at www.HooferSailing.org

Several instruction manuals, including the Hoofer Tech Manual, weather information & more are available at www.HooferSailing.org. Check it out to find other fleet manuals, and learn more about the club!Private Instruction

Can I receive one-on-one instruction?

Yes. In addition to any small-group instruction you receive, Hoofer Sailing members may receive one-on-one instruction on most of the Hoofer Sailing craft at the fee of $35/hr. If you are interested, please contact the Head of Instruction (headofinstruction@hoofersailing.org, (608-262-1630) and this can be set up. Getting Started in LessonsNow that I've taken Ground School, how do I sign up for lessons?

At 9 PM every Thursday, lessons for the following week (Monday through Sunday) are posted on-line at www.lessons.hoofersailing.org. You may sign up for one lesson per fleet of boats (one Tech lesson, one windsurfing lesson, etc) until Friday 8:59PM. At 9 PM Friday night, you may sign up for a second lesson per fleet of boats. On Saturday 2 PM, you have unlimited sign-up for the rest of the week. This staggered system provides lesson fairness and enables more people to have time to choose the lessons they want. Sign up and add any additional info in the textbox that pops up that you feel your instructor should know. This will enable the instructor to answer any questions you might have prior to the start of the lesson. Remember the instructor's name so you can find him or her when you arrive. Meet your instructor on the lakefront at the place specified by the lesson template. Give yourself five minutes extra if you dont yet know where this is.

What if the lesson I want to take is already full?

You may sign up as an "alternate" if the lesson is full for some of our lessons. If the instructor believes it to be practical, based on factors such as the experience level of the class, boat availability, and wind conditions, he or she can admit alternates to the lesson. Alternates are admitted more often than not. If you've signed up as an alternate, show up before class to see if you can participate. Remember, students often cancel the day before a lessontry signing-up again within a day of the class.

If I can't attend the lesson I signed up for, what should I do?

If you must cancel a lesson, please delete your name off the roster at least 24 hours in advance. If you fail to follow this procedure and don't show up for a lesson, you may be blacklisted. This penalty incurs the loss of all lesson privileges for one week. Permanent loss of privileges may result if this policy is violated three times. If a cancellation is due to an emergency, please email your instructor. You will not be blacklisted if you give a valid excuse. If a no show causes enrollment to fall below the minimum, the lesson is canceled. Needless to say, it's not fair to the other students who want to get into a class and the instructor when someone is careless about not canceling

What if the weather is bad?

As the saying goes, If you dont like Wisconsin weather, wait five minutes! Wisconsin summer weather is often unpredictable and it may change rapidly. Many lessons and clinics are held indoors and these are not affected by weather. "On-the-water" lessons may be canceled due to adverse weather conditions such as thunderstorms, a tornado watch, cold rain, lightning, too much wind, or not enough wind. The weather often changes for the better at the last minute so instructors usually dont cancel on-the-water lessons more than a half-hour before their starting time.

Remember, always show up for the first day of your two-day "Tech A" or Windsurfing A lesson. The first day of an "A" lesson is always held if there are enough students.

You should always assume your lesson is on until you hear otherwise. Show up even if the weather does not seem suitable. As often as not, it will clear while you are looking for a parking space. If it doesn't clear, instructors are trained in teaching useful Rainy Day lessons in a condensed time format. This enables you to still gain value from coming to the lesson. More often than not, you will still get on the water for a portion of the lesson time. How do I know if my instructor cancels the lesson?

To keep membership costs down, lessons are held only if there is a minimum of two students. Exceptions to this rule are Ground Schools, and lessons late in the fall. If a lesson fails to meet this minimum enrollment, the instructor will try to call/email you prior to the lesson to save you a trip. If the instructor can't reach you by the telephone number(s) you left, he or she will place a written message explaining what happened on the wipe board at the lakefront. It is also a good idea to check the lessons webpage before coming down to the lesson. Can I start my Large Keelboat lessons right away?

Yes. After your Ground School, members can immediately sign up for Intro to Sailing, and then Intro to Keelboat Sailing. These lessons will prepare you for being ready to take regular lessons on our Large Keelboats. If you want to get as much skippering time as possible to develop your skills, be sure to get your small boat rating and sail a lot!What do I wear/bring for a sailing/windsurfing lesson?

Check the weather forecast ahead of time and bring appropriate clothing. Bring a change of clothes! Our beginning lessons teach you how to capsize small boats and you will almost certainly get wet while windsurfing. Wear clothes that can get wet, but dry quickly. Dont forget to put on sunscreen! Wear shoes, water shoes and sandals that go around your ankles are best. Flip flops are a bad choice as they will float away on you. Wearing hats and sunglasses are wise to protect your eyes. If you wear any kind of glasses, it is best to invest in a strap that goes around the back of your head. This will keep your glasses from winding up in Davey Jones locker! If you have long hair, tie it back. Dressing in layers will keep you warmer than big and bulky clothing. Heavy Weather Test-Out Procedure

Now that I feel comfortable sailing in light wind, how do I test out so I can take lessons on other boats or sail in heavy weather?

After you have your Tech light rating, sail for 6-9 hours on your own before taking a Tech Advanced Classroom on-land lesson. You may then sign up to test out for a Tech Plus rating in green flag conditions, or test out in testable blue flag conditions for a Tech Heavy rating. You can also get your Tech Plus by competing in 2 Tech race days. Be sure to check in with the race committee boat if you go this route. Remember that taking the Tech Advanced Classroom is required before attempting either a Tech Plus or Tech Heavy Testout! Windsurfers have no classroom component before a Testout. What is the difference between a Tech Plus Testout and a Tech Heavy Testout?

Because we cannot pre-schedule heavy weather days, we developed the Tech Plus Testout as a way for you to demonstrate proficiency of basic sailing skills which is required before moving on to more advanced boats. Earning your Tech light rating means that you know how to do all that is required safely. However, to improveyou must sail on your own, so we give more weight to safety than anything else when giving people a Tech light rating. Completing a Tech Plus Testout shows us you are now proficient at the basic skills and ready for the next level of boats. A Tech Heavy Testout is similar with the added exception of a capsizethe difference being it is done on a Heavy Wind or Blue Flag Day. If you are ready for a testout and your Tech Plus Testout falls on a Heavy Wind day, you will earn your Tech Heavy if successful which is a higher level than a Tech Plus. A Tech Plus, however, is all you need to advance to the next tier of boats. Those who want to earn heavy ratings on the more advanced fleets have to come back and earn a Tech heavy first, however. When are Heavy Test-Outs offered?

Heavy-wind test outs are made available on short notice by displaying a Testout Flag on our flagpole when blue flag conditions exist in northerly, westerly, or easterly wind directions. Check the hoofersailing.org site for our flagpole cam and for lake conditions information. Come down to the lakefront when you see the testout flag flying and look for test-out information on the wipe board by the Lakefront Supervisor. Get the name of the test out instructor from the board and find the instructor on the pier. He or she will guide you on what to do next. When is the best time to get a heavy weather test out?Come down when you see the Testout flag flying! Instructors who have had their classes canceled due to heavy wind will often give heavy wind test outs. Therefore, the popular lesson times (late afternoons, evenings, weekends) are the best times to do heavy wind test outs. We are not able to staff test outs at all times, but if you come at these popular times, an instructor is more likely to be available. Note that Heavy Weather Testouts will not be offered on South wind days. Can I start my 420, Badger Sloop, Laser, Byte, and C Scow lessons even before my Tech Plus rating?

Yes, but you cannot receive a rating on these boats unless you receive your Tech Plus rating. We encourage you to make every effort to complete your Tech Plus rating, before moving on to other lessons. If your Tech Plus class cancels for any reason and you have already signed up for other lessons later in the week, do go to those. Just look for another opportunity to complete the Tech Plus testout as soon as you can, so that you will be eligible to receive a rating on the next tier of boats!

How can I get my heavy rating on other fleets?

After you have sailed extensively on these boats to assure you have developed strong skills, or have received Head of Instruction approval due to previous experience sailing on similar boats, you can again show up for the popular lesson times on blue flag days and find a senior instructor on that fleet and ask if he or she is available to test you out. You will need to find your own crew on some boats to make this happen: one additional person for the 420 , I-20, and C-scow, and at least two for the J-fleet, heavy keelboats, and the E-Scow. One way to do this is to make friends with other club members during socials. You will not need crew for Lasers, Bytes, or Windsurfing. Note that there is no heavy weather rating for the Badger Sloop. Donations

The Sailing Club is a registered 501(c)(3) non-profit, charitable organization. By donating to the Hoofer Sailing Club, you will receive a tax deduction! The Sailing Club welcomes all donations be it time, talent, or treasure. In fact, all of the heavy keelboats currently in use today were donations to the club. From time to time, the club purchases new equipment and/or turns over an old fleet of boats. Financial donations are a key source of revenue that enables the club to bring in this new equipment. To make a donation, please visit the Hoofer donation page at http://www.hoofers.org/donations. Thanks in advance for your contributions! Physical Limitations and Sailing

If you have physical limitations or significantly decreased flexibility, talk with your instructor or the Head of Instruction to move directly to a boat that accommodates you more easily. It may be best for you to start your lessons on a larger boat like a Badger Sloop. The Hoofer Accessible Sailing Program allows individuals with significant physical limitation (visually impaired, in a wheel chair, etc) to use their physical capabilities to learn and sail as much as possible. Bessman Accessible Sailing Program membership scholarships are available. Ask about getting involved as a student or an organizer.

Getting on the Fast Track & Jumping Fleets

If I've done some sailing or windsurfing, can I directly test out for my ratings?

If you already know how to windsurf or sail, you can skip some lessons and get ratings faster. This is called fast tracking. Using the ratings criteria list, you can determine where you should be in our fast-track system (usually a Third-Day lesson is appropriate). Then you should sign up for your first test out. Ask your Ground School instructor for help.

Even though fast-tracking helps you move faster through the flowchart, it still requires that you must test out at every level starting at the top of the flowchart. This allows you to become familiar with our way of doing things. It also gives our instructors a chance to observe you and give you useful feedback which will help you get your ratings. Third day lessons are the route for light wind test outs.

The word "lesson" is misleading here because the test out is contained within the lesson. Once the instructor discusses safety and other policies, shows you where things are stored, and makes sure you can rig our equipment, you sail!

If you feel you have lots of experience, especially on fleets that are very similar to Hoofer fleets and that even the "fast track" isn't adequate, you should arrange to meet with the Head of Instruction after your Tech Light to explain your situation. If you are qualified, you will be approved to jump ahead to take lessons (in order to get rated) on the boats you have significant experience on as soon as possible.

Fast Track WindsurfingIf you can answer "yes" to the following set of questions, get placed on the "fast track."

Light Wind Rating Criteria

Lets you sail in winds up to 18 mph with some restrictions. See Flag regulations.

Can you sail upwind and downwind (jibes are not necessary), given plenty of time?

Can you determine wind speed and direction?

Given ideal (easy) conditions, can you complete most tacks you attempt?

Can you avoid unwanted contact with other objects such as piers and boats?

Do you have the confidence and competence to handle all green flag conditions?

Can you get back to the pier on your own in any green flag conditions?

Heavy Wind Rating Criteria

Lets you sail in winds from 18-30 mph from any direction.

Do you have a light rating, or have you mastered the criteria for that rating?

Can you make necessary sail and equipment adjustments for heavy conditions?

Can you get back to the pier without help when sailing in blue flag conditions?

Do you have the confidence necessary to handle heavy conditions?

Fast Track Sailing

If you can answer yes to the following questions, get placed on the fast track.

Tech Light Rating Criteria

Lets you sail in winds 18 mph or less with some restrictions. See Flag regulations. Do you know the Hoofer safety rules and signals (flags and lights)?

Do you know how to sign out equipment and store it properly when done?

Do you know most of the terminology for equipment and maneuvers?

Can you properly rig and de-rig from scratch with only minimal advice? (Fast tracking will show you how to rig if you are unfamiliar with rigging.)

Do you know the bowline, cleat hitch, and sheet bend or square knots?

Do you know how to launch the boat from the pier with no mistakes?

Can you get upwind in green flag conditions with reasonable proficiency?

Given plenty of time, can you tack and jibe without capsizing?

Can you right a capsized boat or have you made alternate plans with the instructor?

Can you land the boat and show three excellent landings?

Do you have the confidence to go out in any green flag conditions by yourself?

Tech Heavy Wind Rating Criteria

Lets you sail in winds 18-30 mph from any direction and in large waves

Have you mastered the criteria for the light rating, and have you taken the Tech Advanced Classroom?

Can you tie a bowline, cleat hitch, and figure eight quickly and correctly every time?

Can you rig your own outhaul, sheet, and boomvang?

Can you rig your sail for heavy weather?

In heavy air, can you sail efficiently upwind and demonstrate safe jibes downwind?

Can you capsize your boat and right it or have you consulted with an instructor?

Can you complete several good close reach landings?

Do you have the confidence to sail in heavy weather?

If you think you have these sailing skills, then jump ahead and place yourself on the fast trackafter Ground School take a Tech 3rd Day or a Windsurfing 3rd Day class.

Now That I Have My Rating What Do I Do?

Going sailing is the best way to continue to learn! Once you get that rating, you are encouraged to go out on your own. Sailing requires coordination and balance between you, the wind, and the boat. Once you get that touch of the tiller, youll have it for a lifetime. So, get out there, rig up a boat, and go out for an adventure! You may take along friends and family free of cost. Day Sailing is available anytime the boathouse is open, except during some club special events. Remember though, that you are responsible for everyones safety!! Practicing at least two hours for every hour of instruction will make you a significantly better sailor. There is no substitute for experience. So, get on out there and once you are feeling good, start signing up for more advanced classes!

How is my skill development in instruction recorded?

Each Hoofer Sailing Club member has his or her ratings recorded in the membership database. Each of the ratings you receive is recorded and you can view this at any time. This rating information is kept for at least five years (to make it easier when you rejoin Hoofers after leaving Madison and realizing you really want to live in Madison).

Student instruction progress sheets towards a rating are often maintained on certain upper fleets such as for the J-fleet and large keelboats. It is the responsibility of the student to save these sheets and bring them to each lesson. These sheets are generally kept as long as the student is continuing to work toward ratings on boats within these fleets. If you have any questions about the sheets, just ask any instructor on that fleet to explain the information to you.

Conference Sailing

The club offers opportunities for businesses, individuals, or groups to go out on guided sails for special events such as corporate outings, birthdays, anniversaries, and other such occasions. Learn to sail packages and customized regattas are also part of our offerings. If you know groups or visitors that would like to take part on a Lake Mendota Sailing Adventure, be sure to let them know about our Conference Sailing Program. Detailed information can be found at www.hoofersailing.com/conference. Racing

The Club sponsors numerous racing events for its members on a wide variety of fleets. Badger Techs, 420s, Lasers, Bytes, and even windsurfers are raced through inter-club sanctioned races. Check the racing board posted on our lakefront for this years schedule. Additionally, club keelboats and some scows race on the other side of the lake in Mendota Yacht Club races. Crews are often in demand, so ask around! The club also posts specialized race lessons and race clinics to teach the fundamentals of racing. Check the lessons website for more information.

Racing against other boats will make you a much better sailor! All of us are a bit competitive and watching other boats pass us will make us focus more on the sail positioning, weight positioning, reading the wind, and all the other little factors that make the differences in boat speed that account for winning or losing races. There is also no better time at Hoofers then coming down for an evening race, taking in a sunset as you come in, and enjoying the camaraderie afterwards. Make racing a part of your Hoofer experience!! Meet People----Have Fun!

Even before you get sailing instruction or ratings on a fleet, you can go out as a guest with other rated Hoofers. This is an excellent way to get familiar with the boat and to increase your excitement to get your rating. Check the Hoofer tunnel for special club cruises and any special events. To get the most out of your instruction, ask lots of questions of your instructor for ideas of how you can further improve your sailing skills. Jump into your lesson fully and share sailing and sailing stories with your new friends.

Remember you are expected to sail for two hours for every hour of instruction. So, go out there and PLAY.

Please read the First half of your manual for the fleet you are taking lessons on before your class. Most manuals, including the Beginning Tech Manual, are available at www.HooferSailing.org (look under instruction).

Creating a Positive Learning Environment

The Hoofer Sailing Club encourages the bringing together of the wide diversity of people within the UW-Madison community of students, faculty, staff, and Union members. Be yourself and have fun. The Hoofer Sailing Club does not tolerate discrimination based on race, gender, age, creed, religion, sexual orientation, marital status, disability, national origin or ancestry, nor does the club tolerate sexual harassment.

Sexual harassment includes unwelcome sexual advances, requests for sexual favors, and verbal or physical conduct of a sexual nature when the conduct interferes with an employees work or a students academic career, or creates an intimidating, hostile, or offensive work or learning environment.

If you feel youve been sexually harassed, you are encouraged to tell the individual(s) involved that the conduct is unwelcome. If this is a face-to-face conversation, consider taking a friend or advocate along to provide support and serve as a witness. Keep notes of what happened. You are also encouraged to contact a club leader such as the Head of Instruction, the Commodore, or any of the appropriate UW-Madison campus leaders.

Giving Feedback

Who can I talk to about the instruction program?

If you have suggestions, problems, complaints, questions, or comments regarding the instruction program, instructors, ratings, or your progress in lessons, please bring it to the attention of the person you think would be most appropriate. This may include your instructor, fleet instruction supervisor, or the Head of Instruction. For any instruction-related items, you may contact the Head of Instruction directly by sending an email to headofinstruction@hoofersailing.org or by leaving a message at (608) 262-1630. You are highly encouraged to complete an Instructor Evaluation Form located in the Boathouse and in the tunnel to give your comments about any aspect of the lesson you just completed. This form allows you to remain anonymous, if you desire, or you can include your phone number for someone to follow up. Each form is read by the Head of Instruction, then, if class-related, given to your instructor for their learning and development.

If the lesson program doesnt meet my needs, what do I do?

Occasionally our standard instruction program doesn't make sense for someone with special needs or unusual qualifications. You may feel uncomfortable in a boat as small as a Tech. You may have special physical needs. You may not want any more sailing lessons because you are already an excellent sailor. Ask for an appointment with the Assistant or Head of Instruction if our instruction program isnt working. Special arrangements can usually be made to meet your needs. We want to assist you in achieving your sailing goals and we want you to have fun and learn while sailing with us.

Who can I talk to about anything besides the instruction program?

Ask the club leaders who can point you in useful directions. If you have a sailing complaint that is not instruction-related, please bring it to the attention of the appropriate Board of Captains member (Fleet Captains for each fleet, Maintenance Rep, Socials Coordinator, Racing Coordinator, etc.) or to the Commodore.. Board of Captains members and club leaders have email addresses listed on www.HooferSailing.org.

What do I do if I have medical concerns?

Check with your doctor to help you decide if the medical concerns will allow you to sail or windsurf safely and if not, on how to handle them more safely. Make sure to let your instructor know before going on the water of any medical issues he or she might need to be aware of. If you may need any prescribed medications while on the water, get a waterproof container and bring the medication with you. If you may need to use an asthma inhaler, get a waterproof asthma inhaler and bring it with you on the water. Sailing is a physical activity.

Ratings Flow Chart

The Ratings Flow Chart, displayed on the next page, tells you how you can progress through the Hoofer Sailing instruction program. You start with Ground School and move on as far as you want. You can build on prior years progress and continue where you left off. If you have previous sailing experience, read about Fast Tracking. If you have lots of experience on a fleet comparable to Hoofer fleets, or if you have physical limitations, check with the Head of Instruction to bypass some prerequisites, so you can take the appropriate lessons.Can my non-rated friends skipper a boat?

Yes, provided that you as a rated person are with them on the boat. You are ultimately responsible for the safety of the vessel and all crew, so use good judgment when letting your friends sail.

Can I follow multiple tracks at the same time?

Yes. Remember that we have unlimited lessons! You can take Tech lessons, windsurfing, and try out our keelboats all at the same time. We encourage you to explore the club first, and then maybe start focusing on where you want to earn ratings!

Part TwoHoofer Sailing Club Safety Rules

Although sailing can be loads of fun, the potential hazards of water sports include serious risks such as injuries and drowning. As the skipper of your craft, it is important to recognize that the skipper is responsible for the safety of all your crew and equipment (your boat) at all times. Ask any longtime sailors about their stories about what went wrong. They will have plenty. As one sails more and gains more experience, one becomes wiser and more cautious in preventing potential hazards.

There are two basic things you can do to increase your safety and reduce chances of drowning:

1. Wear a snug-fitting lifejacket. (recommended always, but required by policy under certain conditions)2. Always stay with your craft (even if capsized) unless someone is right there to put you into his or her boat. The boat gives you additional flotation and is easily spotted.

These are considered our two major safety rules! You can take additional steps to increase your safety, such as:

Check the weather forecast before you go out and watch the weather as you sail

Teach your crew effectively on basic sailing to increase their safety

Develop your skills by sailing as much as you can

When at Hoofers, properly check out your equipment every time you are on the water (so that we know who is on the lake at all times)

Will knowing the potential risks associated with water sports diminish your fun? Certainly not. Knowing the potential dangers and the following safety rules designed to keep you out of danger is the best way to insure that you have fun.

Safe sailing to you!

Jim Rogers, Former Head of Instruction

Hoofer Sailing Club Leadership Structure

Under the Hoofer Sailing Club Constitution, the club is student-led by means of an elected Commodore and Vice-Commodore, both of whom must be a current UW student. Commodore elections take place in August and each newly elected Commodore begins work on appointing a governing body of 15-20 people known as the Board of Captains. Each member of the BOC takes on a particular aspect of leadership whether it be a fleet of boats, or club treasurer, marketing, education, or a variety of other roles. The BOC meets bi-monthly to discuss, vote, and work on club needs/policies throughout the year. Any club member, student and non-student alike, who has an interest in serving the club in a leadership capacity is encouraged to apply to become a member of the Board of Captains. Hoofer Sailing Club General Information and Safety Rules

BOC approved 4/11/07

Policies change from time to time by action of the Board of Captains. The most current rules will be posted on the appropriate Hoofer bulletin boards or online and are required to be followed. There may be other policies or changes adopted that are not written into this manual, but yet are binding upon all club members! The rules below are made for the safety and the increased protection of the Hoofer Sailing Club members and equipment. This list is comprehensive and includes appendices for additional rules that apply to instruction, the Keelboats, the Undergraduate Racing Team, Windsurfing Lake Leaders, Mendota Yacht Club racers, and Snow Sailing/Snow Kiting. These rules are to be followed by all Hoofer members, including Hoofers who are hired, selected, elected, or appointed, and anyone else using Hoofer equipment. The Hoofer Board of Captains may modify rules for Hoofer club-sponsored special events. Lessons may only be posted or taught by Hoofer selected instructors. All suggested penalties for violations to safety rules recorded in this document are the maximum penalty that may be given.

When disputes arise over a situation or incident not explicitly covered by this manual, all parties will consult additional BOC posted policies. If no helpful information is still found, all parties agree to accept resolution as determined by a majority vote by current members of the Board of Captains who will rely on established policies, tradition, precedent, and good judgment to establish a verdict.

Being Safe

As skipper of your boat, you are ultimately responsible for the safety of your crew and your equipment. When there is a potential for trouble, always wear a lifejacket and stay with your boat even if it is capsized.

Safety Light and Flag Regulations

Determination of conditions as indicated by flags and lights is ultimately set by the UW Lifesaving Station, which is operated by the State of Wisconsin. The flag pole is located in front of the Boathouse. Lights are located at the top of the Lake Safety Tower which is on the northeast corner of the Helen C. White College Library.

The UW Lifesaving Station may sound the steam whistle located on the top of the Lake Safety Tower upon closing the lake due to a storm and one hour before sunset (to inform sailors they should begin to head in). In the event of a storm, red lights shall flash from the end of Picnic Point, the Tenney Park Locks, the Lake Safety Tower, and the UW Lifesaving Station. The mechanical warning devices are subject to failure so the flags take precedence if in conflict with the light signal. Hoofers are required to obey the following flags which tell current weather conditions. Flags may change in the middle of the day (green to blue, or non-yellow to yellow)penalties will be incurred for not following the current flags. (Penalty: one week ratings hold on all fleets. In the case of red flag, one week no sail penalty.)

Green Flaglight winds up to approximately 18 mph although this limit may be lowered to account for external factors such as incoming weather, wind direction, wave height, and availability of safety equipment.

Sailors with a light weather rating may sail. Blue FlagHeavy sailing conditions with approximately 18 to 30 mph winds, although this limit may be lower to account for external factors such as incoming weather, wind direction, wave height, and availability of safety equipment. Sailors with a heavy weather rating may sail.

Testout Flag--- Code flag T flown when the club is conducting Heavy Weather Testouts. It will only be flown in blue flag condtions where the primary wind direction is North, West, or East.Yellow Flagcautionary flag requires sailors to stay within the "Yellow Line" area which is an imaginary line running from the tip of Picnic Point to the red and white Oscar Mayer smoke stack. The yellow flag appears in addition to the green or blue flag and is flown when:

Storms are possible

Water temperature is less than 55 degrees F

Visibility is very poor

One hour before sunset (evening steam whistle warning)

Blue/Red FlagVery challenging conditions with winds generally greater than approximately 30 mph. The yellow line is in effect regardless of other factors. The following are the only boats allowed out and the requirements of each are as follows:

Windsurferswhen the sailor has a short board extreme rating.

420swhen the skipper has a heavy weather 420 rating and a heavy weather rating in any other fleet besides 420s, techs, and windsurfers, and the crew has a 420 heavy weather rating..

Lasers are allowed out when the skipper has a heavy weather Laser rating and a heavy weather rating on any other fleet other than Techs and windsurfers.

Keelboats follow keelboat policy addendum (Appendix D).

Red Flaglake is closed. No sailing equipment is allowed out. If the lake is closed because of a storm, all sailors must return to Hoofers by the most direct method.

No Flaglake is closed or the flag hasn't been put up yet. Ask the Boathouse staff what the flag is before going out. See section called Sailing While UW Lifesaving Station is Closed.

Safety Rules

Besides wearing a lifejacket and staying with the boat, four other big rules are: 1. The skipper of a boat is ultimately responsible for the safety of the crew and the boat at all times. If you damage or lose club equipment, report it to the shop and fix it with club permission or compensate the club. Displaying sailing incompetence (i.e., damaging equipment, ramming piers, colliding with other boats, running aground, causing injury, etc.) can also result in ratings removal, and financial liability for any damage. Collisions or incidents resulting in injury or damage to club/public/private property requires the filling out of an incident report form found in the Boathouse. 2. Boats and sails must be properly signed in and signed out in the Boathouse each and every time the boat is used. (Penalty: two work hours after the second offense). Failure to properly check out equipment more than three times in a season may result in a loss of privileges for the rest of the season. You need a current Hoofer Sailing Club membership and the appropriate rating, as given by an authorized instructor, to check out the equipment (Penalty: one week ratings hold on all fleets). If checking out a boat that is coming in, the incoming sailor lowers the sail, raises the centerboard, and ties off the boat. Both the incoming and outgoing sailor than walk to the boathouse together with the incoming sailor checking in the sail and the outgoing sailor checking it back out. If a calendar sign-out system is in place for the boat you wish to sail, follow the sign-out procedures in place at that time. No boats can be checked out of the Boathouse within one hour of sunset. All sails and equipment need to be checked back in through the Boathouse by sunset. (Penalty: two work hours) If you arrive back at the pier at sunset, please check in your equipment and then go back to finish de-rigging the boat. This will help our security team determine that everyone is safely back. 3. Day-sailing is only allowed when UW Lifesaving is open, except when appendices show. Check the Boathouse door schedule for current hours. (Penalty: five work hours must be completed before sailing again plus a two-week no-sail penalty.)

4. There must be one life jacket (Coast Guard approved) on board and easily accessible for each person in the boat (including windsurfers and motorboats). Each person must wear a life jacket when any one of the following conditions is in effect. (Penalty: one week no-sail penalty, Dane County Sheriff). a. When the water temp is below 60oF

b. During blue or blue/red conditions

c. During instruction

d. If the person is not Hoofer swimmer rated

e. During races when designated by that race committee

f. While Windsurfing

Note: Lifejackets may be removed on lessons or during races by permission of Hoofer Sailing Club staff in times of extreme heat and/or humidity.

More common-sense safety rules (Penalty: two work hours, unless otherwise stated.)

5. Do not operate your boat in restricted areas such as a designated public swimming area or 100 feet from a scuba flag or approach public swimming docks except in case of emergency. Boats are not allowed to dock at non-Hoofer piers except for emergencies or when Hoofer Sailing Club approved.

6. Stay clear of race courses except when you are racing.

7. Do not allow the sail to luff (flap in the wind) unnecessarily even when exchanging boats because this will wear out the sail. Raise sails just before you leave the pier. Damaged sails (either ripped or with broken battens) should be lowered immediately and the boats towed in. All damaged sails are to be dried, marked, and placed in the sail repair area. When putting away sails, they are best folded or rolled when they are not on concrete or cement (wood is fine).

8. Boats must not be left at the pier unattended and all equipment shall be put away when you are done with it. When boats are put away, all lines and ropes must be off the floor of the boat so they don't rot. Hoofer boats may remain at the pier for no more than 30 minutes during peak times (Monday-Thursday 5 pm - sunset, and Friday-Sunday noon - sunset), and even then, should be moved if causing a problem. Boats are to be derigged and put away properly, on-time (Penalty: five work hours).

9. A three hour boat usage time limit applies when people are waiting for boats (three hours for keelboats). Skippers need to check in at the Boathouse after two hours unless additional time has been Hoofer approved. If no one else wants the boat, the skipper then can check out the boat for another three hours.

10. Sailors may not loan out sailboats or windsurfers to non-Sailing Club members or non-rated members (although as a skipper on a boat you will be teaching others and may allow others to steer that boat if done safely).

11. A wetsuit or drysuit is required for windsurfing when the water temperature is below 60oF.

12. Shoes or sandals are to be worn at all times when on the docks or on land (to avoid ripped flesh). No running is allowed on docks or in buildings.

13. Show respect for other club members and the public. No verbal abuse or swearing at others is tolerated. (Penalty: one-week no-sail penalty and/or recommendation for club membership removal).

14. Motorboats may only be used by those having a Hoofer motorboat rating for authorized purposes such as rescues, instruction, transport to Hoofer boats, and racing activities.(Penalty: Two week no sail penalty.) The motorboat operator shall be responsible for having all safety equipment and gasoline on the boat (i.e., anchor, lights, lifejackets for all passengers, etc.). People who are motorboat rated should follow current motorboat use guidelines posted in the tunnel. Motorboats should be available for rescues. If you were born after 1/1/89, you must take and pass a DNR boater safety course before operating one of our motorboats. 15. Sailors must know and follow applicable boating regulations and laws.

16. The Head of Instruction, Commodore, Vice-Commodore or his/her designee may decide not to allow any sailor or sailors or fleet of sailors out if he/she feels that the conditions are too severe for the sailors or the sailors skill level.

Right-of-Way Rules

The following right-of-way rules will be followed by all Hoofer Sailing Club boats (except when racing rules supersede). Sailboats, as written below, include windsurfers.

1. Ultimately, all skippers are to avoid collisions.

2. Capsized, anchored boats, or boats involved in rescuing or towing have right-of-way over other moving boats.

3. Swimmers, canoes, kayaks, scuba divers, and crew boats have right-of-way over sailboats.

4. Sailboats have right-of-way over boats under motor power, except fishing boats operating with a trolling motor or when overtaking a boat under motor power.

5. When two sailboats meet under sail power, these are the rules that apply:

a. A boat on starboard tack has right-of-way over a boat on port tack

b. If on the same tack, leeward boat has right-of-way over a windward boat

c. A boat changing tacks must stay clear of all other boats.

6. Hoofer policy states that sailboats should keep out of the way of windsurfers at all times.

How Many People Can Come Aboard?

Hoofer Sailing allows the following minimum and maximum number of people per boat. (Penalty: one week ratings hold on a specific fleet for minimum/maximum loading violations; two work hours for other items unless other rules apply.)

FleetMinimum sailorsMaximum sailors

Windsurfer11

Tech13

Badger Sloop26

42022

Byte11