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How to Be Your Own Winch Wench
Debbie Koelliker

Picture
Sailboat winches may seem to be elaborate, foreign machines to most of us. And as machines, they require some tools and a bit of technical knowledge to care for them properly. This hands-on class will give you a chance to get your hands dirty (just kidding, we’ll have gloves!). During this class you will see how winches are assembled and how they should be maintained. Together, we will take apart several winches, clean, oil, grease and re-assemble. We will have several different types of winches available. As well as the hands-on portion, we will cover the basic mechanics of modern winches.  

For Debbie, racing sailboats started out as a casual interest and developed into an obsession. She started sailing in the 90’s on the Chesapeake Bay. Her first major competition was Audi/Yachting Race Week in Solomon’s Island, MD on the bow of a C&C 33. She really learned how to sail when she started competing in one design fleets like Hobie 16's, Nacras, Capri 22, J's and PHRF. She has competed in Key West Race Week, Block Island Race Week, Women's Rolex, Netherlands' Medenblik J22 Worlds, and Wednesday night Beer Can races on the Bay, Lake Erie, and Lake Michigan. Blue-water racing, cruising and work -- like the Bermuda Race, NYC deliveries, and cruising in the British Virgin Islands -- added a new perspective. Today, Debbie is crewing and skippering on Catalina 30s, a Trimaran, and even ice boats on inland lakes and Lake Michigan. Debbie is still learning more about sailing every day.

Skill level: Beginner, Intermediate, Advanced

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Location

Milwaukee Community Sailing Center
1450 N. Lincoln Memorial Dr.
Milwaukee, WI 53202

What Attendees Are Saying

"The lessons I learned and friendships I made are never far from my mind."

"The most important thing I learned? Now I can tie a bowline!"

"I learn something useful every year."

"Great information from impressive sailing women -- I love their passion and their patience."

"I became a better sailor and never felt intimidated."

"It made a big difference to me to meet and interact with other women sailors."

Contact Us

414.522.7764
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  • Home
  • About
  • 2021 Conference
    • Schedule
  • Amy Seeley Scholarship
  • Merchandise
  • Sponsorship
  • Announcements
  • Gallery
    • Gallery 2019
    • Gallery 2018
    • Gallery 2017
    • Gallery 2016
    • Gallery 2015
    • Gallery 2014
    • Gallery 2013
    • Gallery 2012
    • Gallery 2011
  • Resources
    • Sailing Resources
    • Other Events
    • Woman-Owned
  • Contact Us