Pushaw Lake
Great sailing on a Pushaw Lake in Orono ME today; high quality ice and decent breeze. What else can one ask for?
Launched from Gould Landing, sailed western side of the lake between Dollar Island and Lucky Landing. Hazards had been reported aroubd Dollar Island and elsewhere so we avoided that whole area.
Three DNs and two Whizzes racked up a bunch of scratch races on ice that was an easy 9 out of 10.
First day on the ice all year; I’m regretting every day I skipped the gym over the last few months! Other than that it was a blast. Hope the ice lasts for awhile. Stay tuned….
In other news there will likely be a regatta somewhere in the east this weekend; Maybe Canadian champs, maybe an eastern regatta. Stay tuned for details….
In the meantime get your gear ready and Think Ice!
T Thieler
DN 5224
Race We Must…
Racing the Wind and Each Other. For iceboaters, racing and speed is not just a pastime—it’s the very essence of the sport. At every level, from casual enthusiasts to world-class competitors, the shared drive for speed unites us all. It’s why we joined the iceboating ranks in the first place and why we remain faithful. Whether on the global stage or at local events, iceboating is a testament to speed, skill, and a unique connection to nature’s raw power.
The competitive spirit finds it’s highest expression through international organizations like the International DN Ice Yacht Racing Association (IDNIYRA.ORG) and the International Skeeter Association (ISA). These governing bodies oversee races that span the U.S. and the world, while local groups like our New England Ice Yacht Association (NEIYA) keep the grassroots energy alive and feed and nurture the competitive spirit. One of the longest-running sailing rivalries over 100 years and counting is between the Hudson River Ice Yacht Club and the North Shrewsbury Ice Boat & Yacht Club still thrives to this day. Will this be the year the Rocket gets a chance to best Jack Frost and bring the cup back to NJ?
But at its heart, all iceboating is a race against the wind itself. Each time we push off and sheet in, we’re testing our mettle against nature. On an iceboat, powered by nothing but wind, sail, and low friction, we accomplish what the average person might think impossible. Sailing faster than the wind. With simple vectors of attack and apparent wind, we consistently beat the very force that propels us. Except when sailing dead downwind or in irons of course. Our GPS and anemometer devices confirm it every time.
Victory isn’t always measured by trophies or podium finishes. Whether we look at how close our starting position is to the center of the starting line or comparing GPS readings back in the pits, we know the real competition is with the elements and how we adjust while sailing around the plate. Win or lose, we’ve given the wind a proper thrashing, and the sheer joy of the experience leaves us all grinning.
This past weekend marked the unofficial mass start of the season, with many in the fleet taking to the ice. For those lucky enough to sail today and the rest of the week, the thrill of racing has already begun. Looking ahead, we’re hoping to host official NEIYA races this coming weekend. Race Chair Paul Chamberland will oversee the events and could use some assistance in scouting the best ice conditions, as well as managing scoring and race logistics. If you want to be in the thick of the action without stepping into a boat, volunteering to help score races is a great way to contribute. Racing will be one of the topics on this coming Thursday’s Call @ 6:30pm. Be on for the latest.
So, gear up, stay tuned, and let’s make this season one to remember. The ice is calling, and the wind is waiting to be conquered.
Sail fast,
John
DN5023
John@neiya.org
Lake Massasecum & Sunapee NH Update
Mark reports on some NH ice. Remember sail heads up conditions change and no ice is ever 100% safe. Mark is looking for people to sail Sunapee from state beach tomorrow.
Dick Boisvert and I sailed Lake Massasecum In Bradford today. The ice was 10 inches thick and generally smooth with a coating of snow less than an inch. There is a mile of ice here with good launch access, but limited parking. It should be good again tomorrow.
Sunapee looks good for tomorrow. The ice is solid at the state beach with drive down to the ice access. 4-6 inches of ice in some places , but 2-3 inches further out. There is an open seam out further (per an ice fisherman). This may close overnight as temps dip down to 7 degrees. Weather for tomorrow is 17 degrees at noon w 11mph winds (all afternoon). Monday is the day to sail Sunapee.
Winds on Tuesday, Wed, Thurs to >20mph
I plan to be at the state beach between 11 AM and Noon. Please contact me if you plan to come.
Mark
Pushaw – Monday January 6th
Hello Iceboaters,
Based on the report Bill Bucholz sent out regarding Pushaw, T and I plan on setting up marks and getting some laps in tomorrow. The weather prediction looks ideal and I hope many of you will join us!
Feels like it’s been forever since I have been in my trusty and speedy DN!
Thanks,
Karen Binder
DN 5630
All We Know For The Weekend
Rounding out what we know leaves us with not a lot of options but the cold is here and we will be on the ice for sure next week
VC Charlie S reports a good amount of open water on Wentworth. Waiting on a cold night or two to lock it down again. he will be trying out his new Skimmer on Mirror lake tomorrow thickness was reported to be 6″. Launvh ogg Rt 109 Tuftonboro. This is a small lake and has yet to be sailed but if you’re near by give it a try tomorrow.
Mark’s report from Sunapee, NH. Gray ice extends about 4 miles from Newbury harbor to just north of Big Island. The broads are open water. Ice at the state beach is broken into slabs and I could not walk out on it. I am guessing the overall thickness is less than 2 inches and not safe for skating or sailing. With the cold temps coming the ice should thicken. I am hopeful it may be safe to sail on it by Sunday. Monday or Tuesday may be a better bet.
Mark
Race Chair Paul Chamberland has nothing in the Adirondack region of NY but does expect the next few days. As the cold takes effect we will likely toss some cones and a starting line down and race. Maybe in ME, maybe NH. We will see.
That’s it for now. Be safe check on your equipment and see you on the ice soon.
Think Ice
J
john@neiya.org
P.S. Did we miss something? Reach out and let us know.
Scratch Quaboag Till Next Week
Bob S has reported that after looking at Quaboag at noon today it is not any way ready to sail. He will keep an eye on it over the next several days and report back.
Still waiting on NH venues.
J
Polar Vortex Ushers in Our Season
The returning cold and the impending (so called) polar vortex set the tone for last night’s call, filling the air with anticipation
Today through the weekdnd are dedicated scouting days, as spotters assess conditions across the region. Remember: any ice we encounter is relatively new, forming in the wake of recent warming events. While some lakes and ponds have held onto their ice cover, others have been compromised by warm rain and wind. Every surface must be thoroughly inspected and tested before it can be deemed safe for sailing.
Current Scouting Updates:
- Massachusetts: Eyes are on Quaboag Pond, with scouts monitoring conditions closely.
- New Hampshire: Sunapee, Wentworth, and Mirror Lake are under active review.
- Maine: Scouting efforts are ongoing; check updates on iceboat.me for the latest Maine reports.
- Adirondack Region, NY: The Saratoga group remains optimistic and monitoring continues.
- Connecticut: Bantam Lake, which initially held its ice cover, experienced a blowout and now requires reformation. However, the predicted cold snap over the next week could bring it back into play.
Looking ahead to next week, there’s potential for both recreational cruising and competitive racing, with marks set up for those ready to line up and compete. While it’s too early to pinpoint exact locations, sailors should remain prepared—when conditions align, the call will come.
As expectations peak during this time of year, it’s crucial to temper enthusiasm with caution. Thoroughly inspect ice conditions, sail with vigilance, and stay mindful of hidden hazards. DO NOT SAIL ALONE!
Look for updates later tonight.
Let’s make this season as safe as it is exhilarating.
Sail Fast and Think Ice,
John
john@neiya.org
New Years Greetings
Happy New Year! With no ice to sail on, the next best thing was a trip to Red Bank, NJ, for the North Shrewsbury Ice Boat and Yacht Club’s New Year’s Day gathering. The Rocket stood proudly on display in the parking lot. While we all enjoy talking about iceboats and in particular beatiful crafts like the Rocket we are looking forward to cold weather and ice-making returning to the agenda.
Founded in 1880, the club is one of the nation’s oldest, steeped in history and tradition. Its clubhouse feels like an iceboating museum, filled with vintage parts, historic photos, plaques, and memorabilia that tell the story of our thrilling sport.
On a related note, I was recently made aware of a recent Herreshoff Museum article on iceboating. It’s a quick read, packed with iceboat photos, and highlights Nathanial Herreshoff’s innovative designs. Enjoy the article. Read the article here.
Just got back from Quaboag, It’s still ice covered, didn’t get on to measure but it looked pretty good.
If the wind doesn’t blow it out tomorrow we could be good for the weekend, looks like the next week should be below freezing.
Will check in a day or two.
Bob S
The season is young so be careful checking in and around the ice. We need some cold. We can continue our ice discussions tomorrow night at 6:30 pm.
Think Ice,
John
John@neiya.org
Quaboag Takes First MA Sail honors
Two boats were set up on quaboag today, the ice was hard but covered with about a half inch of snow.
Greg kept a watch on the boats so they wouldn’t blow away, he did a great job.
Mike N and I tried sailing with no wind, not much luck,we blamed it on the snow.
There is 5/5 inches to 3/5 on the lake, about 12 fishermen around the lake.TWe had Bambi stew for lunch,so it turned out to be a great day.
Greg went home and the wind picked up, all we could do is get a few small runs, the snow was too hard
Bob S
Armchair Iceboating
As many of us are waiting for the local ice to shape up, we whet our appetites with two dimensional teasers. For those of us with age, this may include VHS tapes or maybe even 8mm home movies, to start the adrenaline flowing. Today’s generation has a much broader selection for the video fix. A simple Google search will find you glimpses of every facet of Iceboating you can imagine. Racers can find videos of any class that’s out there. DIYers can find many how to vids of everything from home made rig such as, “cheapskates” to race quality DNs. Vintage fanatics can find posts from the ‘40s where stern stearers are racing cars on the ice. Foreign travel buffs will find lakes from the Midwest US to Lake Baikal in Russia. Scandinavian countries always seem to get early ice.
Instruction videos from the experts will cover everything from fine tuning runners and runner planks, to setting up for different wind and ice conditions. Some like Ron Sherry, have a whole series often giving away tricks of the best. ( Remember the helpful brotherhood post?) the foreign experts are there and, although I haven’t tried it yet, Google translate is supposed to be pretty good.
For the super tech savvy sailor, several action cameras mounted in strategic locations give a super perspective of the thrill of sailing on ice. AI and drones that follow you on their own give a solid view similar to an eagle flying behind or above you. (I assume that is the view of several of these birds I’ve seen on the ice.) The handheld phone is handy for those first time rides or of your buddies sailing by.
Even those of us who want to try our hand at video production can use our phones and presto, a YouTube video! (Check out DN Preflight by No Budget Productions, for your basic amateur show. Done by yours truly.)
I do have an issue that after watching one, or several, of these teasers that I need to putter with something having to do with my fleet. (Now up to 4 boats plus 2 of my wife’s.) it may be as simple as lubricating the blocks or sail track, or a new paint job. I have 2 sets of Greatful Dead dancing bear decals that need to go on my super DN. Snoopy needs to have a touch up paint job in my BDX. I just replaced my yoke on my storm sail boom.
As I sit in my recliner and the sun has dropped with the temperature, and I’m through with all the Hallmark Christmas movies, and I found my, “Endless Winter“ dvd for tonight’s viewing. I hope many of you can find something that appeals to you while you sit in the warmth of your living room sipping on a glass of good scotch, that will take you away to either happier times or future adventures.
Happy New Year to you all and may you find thick black ice and moderate winds for the season.
In Santa’s Wake
Santa didn’t quite deliver what I asked for at launch sites throughout the region, but hope is on the horizon as ice continues to build. Maybe, just maybe, we’ll be out there soon. Spotters have been going to great lengths to assess the ice conditions, from the ground to the tops of neighboring peaks. A big thank you to Mark for taking a moment between carving turns and amassing vertical drops to capture a shot of Lake Sunapee from the ski mountain. Here’s to icy adventures ahead!
The picture is Lake Sunapee (from the mountain). All the white areas are 1 inch of snow from last night. The blue is presumably still open water. The ice just off the State Beach launch area made cracking noises under my weight and is probably little more than an inch. I punched through with a hammer blow. The ice in Newbury harbor, which is older, is solid and at least 3 inches thick. I could not break through the hammer in some spots. I did not venture out on the plate to test it further from shore. My guess is anywhere from 1 to 3 inches. Subfreezing days and colder nights are forecast til Friday. Over the weekend it is supposed to warm up and rain. Light winds are forecast till Friday. Not encouraging, but I will continue to monitor.
I skated Squam Lake yesterday. There is a good expanse of solid gray ice in the coves and thinner (2 inches) black ice further out that may be thicker now.
Newfound lake is iced over but I did not check it.
Hopefully, we will have additional info by tonight’s call and out on some ice in the next few day.
Think Ice,
John
John@neiya.org
Like a Lion
Winter wasted no time announcing her arrival on this, her first official day. Here is to everyone that got out today in any capacity. Drive by, quick shorline check a skate or a sail.
Peter Boynton reports in from Little Sunapee, NH.
Dick Boisvert, Henry Kavle, and Peter Boynton joined Mark Friedman sailing Little Lake Sunapee today in New London NH. Ice a bit bumpy but good wind, and good company!
Henry suffered a broken mast – perhaps someone can help him out with a replacement!!
VC Charlie S. reports on happenings in NH
Skated Mirror lake. Mostly 3″ with about 1/3 2-3. One more night. Hope for wind tomorrow.
There is a Small launch site off rt 109 in Tuftonboro,NH. Another site is off Lang Pond rd. by the Libby Museum.
Have some spare time betwee December 23 – January 5th The FDR Presidential Library is delighted to host a display of authentic Hudson Valley Ice Yachts from December 23, 2024 through January 6, 2025. The display is presented by the Hudson River Ice Yacht Preservation Trust and Hudson River Ice Yacht Club.
Think Ice,
John
John@neiya.org
Winter Solstice Sail
How fitting to get a sail in on Winter Solstice Day. Very fitting in a Druid kind of way.
Mark Friedman has bee watching Little Sunnapee for a few days and finally got boat out. Here is what he found.
Little Sunapee was good today and will be good tomorrow.
It’s pretty good here today. There’s some snow on the ice, but the wind is starting to scour it. On the other hand, it’s still snowing a little. The ice is a little bit rough but not too bad. There are some wingers here today, but no ice boats besides mine.
Forecast is 7 to 10 degrees f. witn winds 12-10 mph. Bring your woolens,
I left my boat there , so I will be back
Access is from the parking lot at bucklin Beach in New London. The lot is open but unplowed. Snow is only a few inches deep. If the lot is full you can park on the “Dump road” , perpendicular to rt 114. DO NOT park on 114 or you may get towed.
Mark
Also Reporting in was Bob S. with his ever vigilant eye on Quaboag
“Stopped by quaboag today. it still has ice but the south end is open, about one third is open and the wind is blowing and it looks like the hole is getting bigger.
The shoreline is filling in near the ramp, cold weather coming we may black ice where the water is, i will keep an eye on it.
Bob S”
Other lakes are catching on a a rapid pace more as things progress.
John
DN5023
John@neiya.org
Temp
Surviving ice.
Although it looks like water, Mirror Lake in Tuftonboro, NH survived the rains. I did not venture out yesterday but it’s looks like the best shot at local ice. Lake Wentworth blew out 1/2 way and will need time to glaze over. 3 Skimmers are anxiously awaiting. An early Christmas present perhaps?
Real Cold Is On Our Doorstep
With the crisp taste of ice and competition still fresh, the anticipation for the coming cold front grows. Winter is bearing down, bringing the promise of smooth, black ice and the exhilarating conditions that define our sport.
Iceboating teaches us one lesson, again and again: success favors the ready. When the ice calls, you must answer. Paul Chamberland, and Jeff Roseberry, answered that call in MN and others heeded Bill Buchholz’s rallying cry at Plymouth Pond. They seized the moment and reaped the rewards.
Their efforts paid off, with Jeff picking up a fourth in the competitive DN Western Regional Championship. His result serves as a reminder of the spirit and skill required to compete at the highest levels.
As the temperature drops and the ice forms, we are reminded: the thrill awaits those who dare to chase it.
Bob S. our Cruising Chair sums it up in two sentences.
Don’t wait until you get to ice to look for all the parts. Nice day to set up and make sure everything is there and ready to go.
Bob S.
Think Ice,
John
john@neiya.org
P.S. We will have out regular 6:30 call tonight. No I can’t promise sailing on Saturday but we always have something to talk about. Email me if you have forgotten the number.
Ice is coming
Bob S reports on Quaboag today.
Looking like we may have some ice around the region to talk about on Thursday evening.
Thanks Bob keep it coming.
The pond is frozen again, no holes spotted , 1 and half inches in front of the ramp.
will check again
Bob S
Think Ice,
John
P S. Report on Landfall gathering later tonight.
The Speed and Spirit of Iceboating
Iceboating has always been synonymous with speed. A visceral, wind-driven thrill across frozen landscapes. Yet, beyond the thrill of gliding on ice at breakneck velocity lies an equally compelling draw: the camaraderie of a shared passion. This unique sport unites kindred spirits, blending the forces of nature, wind, water, and ice with a profound sense of community.
This past weekend, with plans for Minnesota not an option, Eben Whitcomb and I turned our focus closer to home. We ventured to two annual gatherings of iceboating enthusiasts: one on Long Island, N.Y., and the other along the Hudson River in Kingston, N.Y.
Both groups, as we expected but were happy to confirm, are tight-knit communities within the larger world of iceboating. On Long Island, the historic Weeks Yacht Yard buzzed with energy, its storied past lending an air of timelessness to the event. Up the Hudson, the backdrop of the Catskills and the historic Hudson reflected the true heritage of iceboating in the United States.
While it’s the adrenaline of high-speed dashes across the ice that initially captivates us, weekends like these serve as a reminder of iceboating’s true draw: the people. The sport is as much about forging bonds in the cold as it is about the rush of the ride, a balance of heart-pounding excitement and heartwarming connection.
For those eager to immerse themselves in this unique world, don’t miss the upcoming iceboat-themed open house at Landfall Navigation in Stamford, Conn. Join us this Saturday, from 10 a.m. to 3 p.m., at 151 Harvard Avenue, just off I-95 at Exits 6 North and South. Whether you’re a seasoned sailor or simply curious about the sport, it’s a perfect opportunity to learn more and share in the spirit of iceboating.
Think ice, and we hope to see you Saturday!
Warm regards,
John
John@neiya.org
I have invited a few local soft water sailors to Landfall to talk iceboating next Saturday, December 14th. Looking forward to seeing some familiar faces and welcoming new ones. Come join in and help spread the word from 10am to 3pm Landfall Navigation 151 Harvard Ave, Stamford, CT 06902.
Paul and Jeff have checked in from Starbuck, Minnesota—a town without a Starbucks but full of sailing grit. With over 400 miles logged behind the tiller and hours of fine-tuning under their belts, they’re setting a high bar for the rest of us.
Gentlemen, your efforts put many of our East Coast numbers to shame. Best of luck this weekend at the Western Regionals on Lake Minnewaska—a place that seems tailor-made for your style.
Looking like an excellent venue for the DN Western Championship this coming weekend
On Saturday the Lake Ronkonkoma Ice Yacht Club held their annual swap meet at the historic Frank M. Weeks Yacht Yard in Patchogue NY. Weeks was founded in 1889 and specializes in building and repair of wooden boats big and small. The gathering featured homemade chili, desserts, and a good collection of iceboats and parts for sale. We look forward to seeing the Long Island gang out on the ice this winter.
Found in a back corner of the Weeks Yacht. I didn’t ask but looks like a wonderful project if one has the time and money. And no it did not come home with me
This past Sunday, the Hudson River Ice Yacht Club (HRIYC) held its annual meeting at the Hudson River Maritime Museum (HRMM) on the banks of Rondout Creek, a tributary of the Hudson River in Kingston, NY. The HRMM, is home to a a collection of historic iceboats as well as a history of the Hudson River. It is well for enthusiasts of nautical history.
The meeting was an inspiring gathering of sailors united by a shared passion for preserving historic iceboats. Many of these vessels, dating back to the turn of the 20th century, have storied legacies tied to prominent figures of the industrial age, including the Roosevelts and Astors.
The HRIYC serves as custodians of this unique maritime heritage, maintaining a living, functional museum on ice. Their dedication ensures these magnificent vessels remain a vibrant part of Hudson River history.
Special thanks to the HRIYC for once again voting in favor of supporting the NEIYA by renewing their paid membership.
Looking Around Dec Week One
It’s great to see some member activity out in Starbuck, Minnesota! Back home watchful eyes are scanning birdbaths, puddles, and ponds for any signs of ice. As previously reported Bob S. has shifted to hunting ice after bagging this season’s limit. Not to be outdone Peter Boynton has been searching and hoping as well. Anyone else see anything of interest?
I have invited a few local soft water sailors to Landfall to talk iceboating next Saturday, December 14th. Looking forward to seeing some familiar faces and welcoming new ones. Come join in and spread the word 10 to 3pm Landfall Navigation 151 Harvard Ave, Stamford, CT 06902.
Sail Fast,
John
The snow wet out but we have quite a bit of open water, about one third of the pond has open water, checked the grey ice 2 1\4 inches. warm weather week, we could lose it, just wait and see,
Bob S
Jeff Kent Reports from Minnewaska – Day 3 for Bernd Zieger and I. Conditions yesterday light air 1 ” stiff snow patches Turnout reasonable.
In answer to Bob S’s plea Peter Boyngton captured some skim ice on a North Andover, MA pond.
Ice Checkers Checking In
Quaboag is looking better today, with a half inch of ice where open water was two days ago.
There should be about an inch further out, snow tonight 3 to 6 inches it may help it or sink it and grey out, only time will tell.
It’s early December, we can just keep checking.
Bob S
Meanwhile, two of our members, Race Chair Paul Chamberland and Jeff Roseberry, are mixing it up on Lake Minnewaska in Starbuck, MN. Good luck sorting out your rigs this weekend and bring some cold back east with you.
Think Ice,
John
John@neiya.org
Skim Ice Observed On Quaboag Pond
Bob S reports that Quaboag in Brookfield MA has skimmed over. Cold is here!
Stay tuned saliable ice is on its way.
Don’t forget the member call on Thursday 6:30 this Thursday. You should or will have the info in your email already of shortly.
Think Ice,
John
NEIYA, Commodore
john@neiya.org
Happy 2024 Thanksgiving
Thanksgiving Kicks Off the Ice Sailing Season
Happy Thanksgiving to all! Today, we celebrate gratitude, good food, family, friends, and football. But for ice sailing enthusiasts, it also marks the unofficial start of the season. While no secret pond in New England is quite ready for sailing yet, the countdown has begun. Our friends in Minnesota are gearing up, and we know it won’t be long for us here in New England and the Northeast.
Are You Ready?
With the season upon us, it’s time to prepare. Our first NEIYA Thursday call is scheduled for next Thursday, December 5th, at 6:30 PM. Current members will receive call details via email over the weekend. If you have not paid your dues, now is the time to take care of it! Visit the NEIYA website at www.neiya.org and use the membership section on the right-hand side of the homepage.
If your boat is still in storage, this weekend is the perfect opportunity to haul it out and get it ready. And don’t forget to connect with your winter ice buddies—it’s always better to prepare as a team.
Upcoming Off-Ice Gatherings in New York
For those in the New York region or anyone eager to connect with fellow ice sailing enthusiasts, two off-ice gatherings are scheduled for next weekend:
- Lake Ronkonkoma Ice Boat and Yacht Club (LRIBC)
When: Saturday, December 7th, 12:00–3:00 PM
Where: Frank M. Weeks Yacht Yard, 10 Riverview Ct, Patchogue, NY 11772 - Hudson River Ice Yacht Club (HRIYC)
When: Sunday, December 8th, 1:30–4:30 PM
Where: Hudson River Maritime Museum, Kingston, NY
Details: This potluck event is a must for fans of vintage stern steerers.
Questions?
If you have any questions, feel free to reach out via email.
Think ice, prepare your boats, and let’s make this season one to remember!
John Stanton
NEIYA, Commodore
John@neiya.org
Instruction 101
Talk often centers around attracting new sailors to our sport. Anyone who has seen us zipping around on the frozen expanses, has the curiosity bug and as we are usually a chatty group, will often give them the low down. Sometimes if we judge them dressed for the cold, and we have a helmet that fits, and either a spare boat or a two seater, we may provide their first lessons in sailing on ice. The Gambits or Nites are great for this type of indoctrination. A DN with a sidecar can also do but tougher to trade the helm. Hopefully you have conditions that lend to a leisurely sail, smooth safe ice, relatively warm temps, and something less than hurricane force winds. After the test ride with you at the helm, you may ask your newbie if they want to take over. If they answer yes, you are now in the official role of instructor. Iceboating is one of the few remaining sports where there are no professional schools for instruction nor a certificate qualifying you. Here is where common sense and safety concerns should instantly pop into your head.
Hopefully you have tried to ascertain the sailing abilities of your new convert. Do they sail soft water, are they aware of the rules of the road, do they know points of sail, are they aware of ice hazards and rescue. (Hopefully you have lent them a set of picks and have a throw line handy,) Understand too that communication is limited at this point. The more information you can give while stopped and helmets off, so all instructions can be heard, the better the lesson. At this point hand signals could be agreed upon such as sheet in, ease off, right turn, tack, jibe, and most importantly STOP! If you’re frantically pounding on their shoulder, they may have no idea what you want. When in doubt, stop and talk. Start with just enough speed to keep the boat moving nicely, keep the speed down until tacking, jibing, and stopping have been practiced. This may be an hour or more but please be as careful and knowledgeable as you can with new converts. Good habits make for more enjoyment and safer forays. Once the novice begins building confidence, they will generally start improving their skills and the performance capabilities of the craft. If it’s your boat, you may have to set some limits.
If you’re helping someone with a first time on ice scenario, things are not quite so controlled. You may want to do a quick check to see if everything is set up correctly. I always carry a spare set of picks to lend just in case. After the basic instruction and rules have again been reinforced, you might try a game of follow the leader. Head up and do a few easy tacks and then stop. Your student should not be allowed to pass you and stop where you do. Talk about the short ride. Does everything in your boat seem to be working right? Did you have trouble with the boom shifting over? Does the sheet run through the blocks freely. Do you fit comfortably in the cockpit? (As comfortable as possible, depending on the boat.) This might mean a trip back to the pits to correct anything you need to. Going back though now introduces the student into jibing. Depending on conditions, this can be quite intimidating as they go broadside to the wind. Too tight a sheet has caused many an OBE. Out of boat experience. I’ve had several in my lifetime, fewer of later years. I must have learned.
A few more rounds of up and down in a good practice area, usually gives the student enough confidence to go for more. If you’re there with your buddies, you could join the group. You could be his wingman and keep an eye on him. If it’s just the two of you, you might want to do a little cruising. Keep a constant eye out for each other and take frequent breaks to converse. Remember helmets and face masks can muffle voices quite well.
At this point you should be recognized as doing your best to keep our sport alive. Thank you.
After a few times on the ice, you may see him doing quite well and you’ve got a new sailing buddy. He may also be the competitive type and foster an interest in racing. If you are a racer yourself, you may continue to be his teacher. If not, be sure he knows about the IDNIYRA, and tell him of any regattas you know of. I’ll leave racing lessons to those more qualified than myself.
For those of you who have had the opportunity to teach, thank you. You have taught someone a life long sport and help our sport survive a little longer. Think ice and remember what your runner plank is tuned for when the holidays hit. A Christmas Wish for smooth safe ice and fair winds.
Helpful times on the ice.
So the fall meetings are over and many of us have checked our gear. Let’s see, that’s boat complete, now where are those stays at? Where’s my helmet and pics? Do I need to buy that drysuit this year? Where’s the trailer registration. Why is that light out? Eventually you are satisfied that you’re ready, just need ice.
So you are now on the ice and ready to step the mast and notice a frayed end on the head stay. You holler to your buddy and sure enough, he’s got a spare.
You just got to the ice with your first DN. (New to you.) You’ve been assured that all the parts were there. Joe has already set up his boat, his wife’s boat, and his new friend’s boat. He notices that perplexed look he has seem so many times over the years. He’s drawn to you like a magnet and asks,”Can I help you with that?”
I can remember my dad being bitten by the ice bug and several trip to Attitash lake near Amesbury. He was gathering information and it seemed like everyone had something to contribute.
Ask any newbie racer has he ever shared or taken in knowledge from other racers. Everyone always seems ready to talk about it, brag about it, even try to be a boat broker.
As you’re starting to sail, your first thought goes to, “What’s out there?” Time to check the report. Usually some one has scouted it and given an update. If you find something out there, you think of a way to warn others. Everyone seems to be as helpful as they can. Hope to see you on the ice.
Keep up the good PR and the great friendships on the ice.
Charlie
2024 Swap & Meet: A Good Time Was Had by All
Title: 2024 Swap & Meet: A Good Time Was Had by All
A lively crowd turned out for the NEIYA’s annual Swap Meet and meeting, making for a memorable day. A big thank you goes out to everyone who helped make it a success.
By 10 a.m., the parking lot was packed with sellers, browsers, and iceboating friends reconnecting ahead of winter. Boats of every budget were on display, from vintage models from the 70s to brand-new parts and iceboats.
Four vintage DN iceboats found new homes, with plans to bring them back to cruising form to help introduce newcomers to the sport. The boats went to New Hampshire, two in Massachusetts, and one in Albany, near the Adirondack lakes. We’ll have updates on these classic crafts in the coming weeks. Their heritage will go on.
Lunch kicked off around 12:30, followed by the annual meeting, which I led with support from our new and returning officers. I highlighted the sailing opportunities from last season and paid tribute to Treasurer Bob Haag, who served the NEIYA tirelessly for twelve consecutive seasons. Bob, on behalf of all of us, thank you for your dedication—now it’s time to see you more often on the ice.
This season, we welcome Treasurer Ed Demerest and Race Committee Chair Paul Chamberland to the team. Returning are John Stanton as Commodore, Charlie Silfvenius as Vice Commodore, and Secretary Karen Binder. Bill Buchholz will continue to support our northern area in Maine, while Bob S. will cover central Massachusetts around the Worcester area.
Attendees represented all six New England states, as well as New York, Pennsylvania, and New Jersey. Special thanks to the Lake Ronkonkoma Ice Boat Club for donating a 1938 copy of Wing on the Ice, which quickly found a new owner in a mini-auction.
Stay tuned as we kick off our weekly Thursday evening calls in the next two weeks. We’re also planning some communication updates to help us locate and access the ice faster this season.
Think ice and get ready for the first black ice of the season.
John
NEIYA Commodore
DN5023
john@neiya.org
New England Ice Yacht Association 