Sailing/Racing

How do I get started Racing?

Dinghy racing

Dinghies are smaller boats, without a heavy keel. They are less expensive, usually sailed by a crew of 1 or 2, but can provide a lot of thrill for the buck. Plan on lots of spray and going for the occasional ducking.

Some people buy a boat, then figure out how to sail it, but you'll get up to speed much quicker with organized instruction. Another approach is to find a friendly, experienced sailor who wants a crewmember on an on-the-job-training basis.

Most racing is organized by yacht (or boating) clubs, but you don't have to be a member to join in. There are many youth programs that focus on racing as the end goal. Some high schools and colleges have racing teams.