Portland Community College | Portland, Oregon

Experience the thrill of windsurfing with PCC classes

Photos and Story by James Hill

SOUTHWEST PORTLAND – This summer, discover what hundreds of water sports enthusiasts already know: why the Columbia River Gorge is rated as the number-one windsurfing spot in the nation. Portland Community College can get you out on the river on your own sail board with an upcoming non-credit windsurfing classes.Windsurfing features all the equipment needed to pick up the fundamentals in a two-day format. Bob Rueter, owner of Gorge Performance, and his team of instructors will offer expert instruction that is easy to follow for every level. On a dry land simulator, students will begin by mastering body position and judging wind direction.Next, students move on to hoisting the mast and beam, and tacking and jibing. Finally, students will drive out to the gorge together and take their new skills onto the water."The gorge literally attracts windsurfers from around the world, and after this class you can begin sailing amongst the best,"says Cecelia Barry, PCC Community Education manager.The class will be offered five times this term as follows: From 4 to 8 p.m., Tuesday and Wednesday, June 24 and June 25. Cost is $90. From 10 a.m. to 3 p.m., Saturday and Sunday, June 28 and June 29. Cost is $120. From 4 to 8 p.m., Tuesday and Wednesday, July 1 and July 2. Cost is $90. From 10 a.m. to 3 p.m., Saturday and Sunday, July 12 and July 13. Cost is $120. From 4 to 8 p.m., Tuesday and Wednesday, July 15 and July 16. Cost is $90.All classes will meet at Gorge Performance, 7400 S.W. Macadam, and drive together to the gorge for the last phase of the class.For more information, contact PCC Community Education at 503-731-6622.