Cadets learn how to pull together (From St Albans & Harpenden Review)

Cadets learn how to pull together

9:49am Tuesday 20th December 2005 in News By Staff reporter

FIVE St Albans Sea Cadets put all their effort into a two weekend "pulling" course despite the freezing weather this month.

Ben Lansdown, Hugo Oakley, Tuesdie Berrystone and Hayley Boothroyd all passed their competent crew exam and Tom Oakley passed modules of the more advanced coxswain course, both held at Victoria Dock in London's Docklands.

Pulling is a mentally and physically challenging sport where the cadet must race pulling boats in regattas and experience many different manoeuvres.

The children learnt how to come alongside, moor on a buoy and carry out man overboard drill during the course.

Hugo, 11, from Sandridge said: "As the smallest I was really worried I'd have to jump in the water for the man overboard drill.

"I was really relieved when I found out we'd be using a weighed buoy.

"I really enjoy the cadet course; as well as this in the last year I've passed a dinghy sailing course, a cook/steward course, the swimming test and emergency first aid certificate."

Ben, 11, from Hemel Hempstead, felt like a yeti with the many layers of clothes on but said he needed them.

The group even had to break off ice from parts of the boats before starting but once they got going they said they had great fun.

St Albans Sea Cadets meet behind Westminster Lodge swimming pool and describe the organisation as an inexpensive, rewarding opportunity for boys and girls aged between ten and 18.

To join in the fun just turn up on a Tuesday or Friday at 7pm or visit www.seacadetfun.com