Ben Swanson qualifies as a US Sailing Small boat sailor after exploring the sport at Yellow Creek Lake as part of the IUP Sailing club.
Kittanning native Ben Swanson ’24 had never been on a sailboat when he arrived at IUP during the midst of the Covid pandemic. But the novice was attracted to the image of sailing off into the sunset. It was also a good time to join an outdoor activity you enjoy when there’s a breeze blowing.
Four semesters later, the junior Economics major and Cook Honors student has completed the fourteen areas of theory and practical boat handling to earn his Small Boat Sailing certification from US Sailing. This establishes that he is capable of skippering a dinghy, keel or centerboard day-sailor in light to moderate air.
Swanson was selected as the club president and “Commodore” last Spring. Along with other club members, he has sailed in college regattas hosted by Gannon at Lake Erie and Drexel on the Delaware River. The club also spent several days of the 2022 spring break “training” at Bow to Stern Sailing in Oriental, NC.
Like all new members of IUP sailing, Swanson gained practical experience with the club boats that are docked in nearby Yellow Creek State park, at the FOYC community sailing base. In September, October the sailors learn to rig and launch boats, navigate, trim sails and even practice righting a capsized boat. In March they wait for the lake to thaw and launch boats again for April and May. During winter, the club focuses on shore-school, sailing theory, knots and social activities.
Dr. Ken Sherwood, IUP Sailing Club advisor and certified US Sailing instructor, gave Swanson his final skills checkout at the lake in mid-October. Happily, Swanson had completed his capsize test in warmer months. Most IUP students, like Swanson, have not been previously exposed to sailing. The club teaches beginners the basics, fosters camaraderie, and gives the most serious sailors a chance to experience competitive racing. Sherwood encourages interested students to check out the club on Instagram and Crimson Connect or to email IUPSailingClub@gmail.com for information about joining. Dues are low and becoming a sailor can open up a lifetime of priceless opportunities.