Whistler Sailing is inviting the public to its boats.
The club is set to host two free open houses, one on Monday, June 10 between 4:30 and 7:30 p.m., and one on Saturday, July 13 from 1 to 4 p.m.
Head coach and general manager Francois Hebert is excited to see some new faces at the club.
"The goal of these open houses is for people to meet the coaches and the members of Whistler Sailing, and secondly, to learn about the Whistler Sailing programs and options," he said. "People are going to get the chance to go sailing with an experienced coach or member.
"The ultimate goal is to create new sailors and grow interest and share our sport with the community."
The open houses are a continuation of the club's increase in outreach in recent years. Hebert said those efforts are paying off in padding Whistler Sailing's membership numbers.
"We're still growing. We've been in existence now just about 10 years this year," he said. "We've had a lot of impact with kids in our community with our school programs and the summer camps that are our most popular activity."
Hebert added that he also feels that Whistler is "ahead of the curve" when it comes to making sailing inclusive, noting that some other communities face perceptions that it's an unattainably elitist pursuit.
"Sailing has a bit of a problem that it's perceived as a bit exclusive with all the yacht clubs. We're more of a sailing club where we sail smaller boats and it's all about the sport of sailing and keeping it affordable," he said.
Those interested in coming to the open house are asked to RSVP to info@whistlersailing.com.
Forged teaming up with Zero Ceiling
Forged Axe Throwing is holding an open house in support of Zero Ceiling on Thursday, June 13.
The Function Junction-based business will mark International Axe Throwing Day with the chance to try the sport by donation to Zero Ceiling, which helps at-risk and homeless youth.
As well, a representative from the Whistler Community Services Society will be on hand to provide information about the organization's mental-health supports as part of an effort to eliminate stigma about proper mental health.
"Mental health has never been more topical than it is right now," Forged co-owner James Anderson said in a release. "It's important to encourage more people to talk about mental health, and here at Forged, we are always keen to bring different communities together and promote inclusivity."
The event starts at noon.
For more information, visit www.forgedaxe.ca.
