Middletown, RI —Sail America, the exclusive U.S. sailing industry trade association, is launching a "New Sailor's Day" program at two of its major shows: on January 26 at Atlantic Sail Expo at the Convention Center in Atlantic City, New Jersey, and February 2 at Strictly Sail Chicago at the Navy Pier.

The "New Sailor's Day" program is designed to give prospective sailors a fast-track, full-day seminar that highlights the fun of becoming a sailor and introduces a variety of ways to enjoy the exciting sailing lifestyle. Designed to educate newcomers to sailing and help them take the next step, the "New Sailor's Day" program is part of Sail America's consumer promotion campaign - Discover Sailing: The Ultimate Adventure.

To kick off the seminars, keynote speaker Captain William "Bill" Pinkney will share his voyage of discovery as the first African-American to circumnavigate the globe alone, traveling through the five great capes of the world. EPSN commentator Gary Jobson and veteran instructor Lou Carretero will provide fresh insights and how-to sailing sessions, while Olympic contender and Team One Newport owner Martha Parker will take a look at the latest and most comfortable sailing fashions.

Through the sessions, novice sailors will discover that sailing lessons and opportunities to sail are easily accessible. "You can get involved in sailing in so many ways, from a minor commitment to it, to a full-blown commitment," said Doris Colgate, "New Sailor's Day" chairperson. "Our program is devoted to showing the opportunities and the fun side of sailing."

Colgate says many newcomers are attracted to sailing as a way to enjoy quality time with their families or loved ones, an opportunity they especially prize in light of the events of 9-11. "The great part is that families, couples or friends can be together, but they can be involved in sailing in a variety of ways," she said. "Some people will get actively involved in maneuvering the sailboat, while others are content to sit and read a book. Whether it's a day trip, a short cruise or a week-long adventure, sailing is a great opportunity for people to bond and spend time together."

"New Sailor's Day" admission is $45 per person and includes Saturday and Sunday show tickets to the shows, VIP tours of select booths and boats, a canvas gift bag and access to New Sailors VIP lounge. The program is available by pre-registration only. Contact 800-817-7245 from 8:30 a.m. to 5 p.m. EST or access the www.sailamerica.com site, clicking into the Atlantic Sail Expo or Strictly Sail Chicago shows to reach the "New Sailor's Day" program. Registrants can also e-mail [email protected] to make arrangements.