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Want To Learn To Splice Rope? Join Jeff Zarwell for His Upcoming Class

PRO or rope guy? Jeff Zarwell is probably best known for officiating sailing regattas and races around the Bay Area and all over the country, so we’re pretty sure you’ll have seen him around. Some of you may even have seen him at West Marine. But did you know that Jeff is also a rope guy? Next week, on Wednesday, October 19, Jeff Zarwell is sharing his other great skill and passion: rope slicing.

Jeff is conducting a free two-hour rope splicing class at Spaulding Marine Center. During the class you’ll learn how to make an eye splice, splice in a thimble, end-to-end splice, and if time allows, a rope-to-chain splice with three-strand rope. You could, of course, try learning this from a book or from a video clip, but we all know that in-person is a much better way to learn hands-on activities. Jeff has been splicing for years, for both practical and decorative applications, and his technique is outstanding, just like his PRO skills. He knows what he’s doing!

Jeff Zarwell with flags
We’ve heard of a person wearing many hats. But what about waving many flags? Jeff does both.
© 2022 Courtesy Yacht Racing Association

At the completion of this class, you’ll be able to splice your own dock lines, rope/chain anchor rode, dog leash, or whatever needs a piece of three-strand rope with an eye (loop) at one or both ends. So book yourself in for this free class, and learn, or even brush up, your splicing skills.

The class will run from 6 p.m. to 8 p.m. at Spaulding Marine Center, 600 Gate Five Road, Sausalito. Spaces are limited, so book here.

splicing
According to Samson Rope, knots can significantly decrease a rope’s strength, while, in most cases, splicing maintains 100% of the specified rope strength.
© 2022 David J. Fred

And if by some chance you’ve never heard of Jeff Zarwell…

Jeff began competitive one-design racing on San Francisco Bay in 1980, and in 1994 began managing the races for the Golden Gate YC. He was certified as a US Sailing National Race Officer in 2002, and after developing and managing a winter training series for the West Coast Farr 40 fleet, he founded RegattaPro.

Jeff Zarwell profile pic
Jeff Zarwell in action on the water.
© 2022

He has managed regional and national championship regattas, as well as world championships and the America’s Cup World Series across the United States, Central America, Cuba and Europe. Jeff is also currently the Area G Race Officer for US Sailing, overseeing the development and training of current as well as aspiring race officers.

You’ll be in good hands!

To see all current and future classes at Spaulding Marine Center, go to their home page, or see the full list here.

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