For the past two years, Mel has been an active participant in BS&BCs Mentored Sailing Program (MSP), and she says its been a truly transformative experience.
Everyone I've met through lessons, volunteering, racing and club events have been so welcoming, encouraging and just a fun bunch of people to be around. The time commitment was challenging at times, but I always looked forward to getting out on the water and continually learning new things.
In her first season, Mel was mentored by Tony Lewis, whose humour, calm approach, and wealth of experience helped her feel right at home aboard Discovery. The following year, Peter Davidson guided her further, challenging her to refine her skills, stay aware of her surroundings, and as she puts it just chill out!
There were plenty of memorable moments along the way. During one lesson in 2024, Discovery responded to a mayday call from a powerboat in distress. Mel and fellow mentee Paul W used their newly learned radio skills to coordinate with the Coast Guard and help tow the stranded vessel and its grateful owner (and dog!) back to safety at RHYC.
And in 2025, there was a lighter moment when Peter trusted Mel to sail across the bay to dock for an ice cream stop with onlookers watching. It was a big deal for me, she said. That trust meant everything.
Mel also credits Monique Van der Leden and the crew aboard Shaula for expanding her racing experience through Tuesday and Thursday night races and club regattas like The Hook and The Fiasco.
Everything I learned during mentor lessons was reinforced on race nights and quickly! I was lucky to get to learn with the best crew one could ask for.
As Mel sums it up:
Thank you BSBC!
Her enthusiasm and commitment embody exactly what the Mentored Sailing Program is all about learning, teamwork, and the joy of being out on the water.