Families Set Sail To Beat Gas Prices

High gas prices are not only driving people to stay off the roads more, they're putting people into boats.

Sunday, July 6th 2008, 6:20 pm

By: News On 6


High gas prices are not only driving people to stay off the roads more, they're putting people into boats. Sailing clubs say they're seeing a lot of new faces this summer. News On 6's Jeffrey Smith reports the sport is attracting all walks of life.

Since they use wind as fuel, sailors are virtually unaffected by high gas prices. But, there's a lot more behind the popularity of a sport affectionately called, "a chess match on water."

In the war against high gas prices, the best weapon is an armada.

"As people become affected by the gas prices, they'll start looking for alternative means of recreation and I think our club will see a large growth," said JoAnn Chandler with the Windycrest Sailing Club.

They're fighting fuel, by taking to the water.

"You can have a summer's worth of fun out here at Windycrest Sailing Club for what it would cost you to gas your boat up and ski for one day," said Chandler.

Oklahoma sailing is more popular than ever. The price of gas isn't taking the wind out of Oliver Seekins' sails. In fact, it's the opposite.

"I see more of my friends wanting to get into sailing because they're sick of paying for gas on their sea-doos and motorboats," said Oliver Seekins, who enjoys sailing.

The teenager has been sailing for three years. As a member of Windycrest out at Lake Keystone, he's gearing up for Sunday's big race.

"It's just more than other sports that I've done. It's physically and mentally challenging," said Seekins.

Seekins says it takes a day to learn, but a lifetime to master.

"Anybody can go out there and sail, but to sail the course efficiently takes a lot more," said Seekins.

In the thick of the fight, Seekins is having the time of his life. For anyone old or young, the sport has taken on a second wind.

These sailors say now more than ever, it's time to drop the wheel and pick up the rudder.

Windycrest Sailing Club has races twice a week. They also offer weekly classes for adults and kids. Members say it's a family-friendly sport. The club has more than 250 families as members.

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