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Getting Started in Sailing
By Julia Cantone // usolympicteam.com // April 15, 2004
Getting Started in Sailing
Sailing includes four primary boat types – small boats, keelboats, windsurfers and multihulls -- which are all appropriate for beginners of any age. For youth sailors, the best way to get started is to find a local sailing club offering a junior program in your preferred boat type. Ask about U.S. Sailing’s “Sailing Smart” program for kids ages 8-13, available at clubs across the country. There are also racing clinics for young competitors looking to hone their skills.
Entry-level junior sailors can participate in regional Junior Olympic Festivals that incorporate learning and competition. The pinnacle of U.S. Sailing events run for youth sailors are the U.S. Youth Sailing Championship (20 and under) and the U.S. Junior Sailing Championships (ages 13-18). The singlehanded, doublehanded and triplehanded Junior Championship events are very popular and utilize a ladder style format narrowing to 10-20 teams representing geographic areas. The Junior Women's Championship events are open with no pre-qualification required. Check out U.S. Sailing’s Youth Sailing Web site for more information on competition schedules and opportunities for kids.
Adults interested in learning to sail should also contact a local sailing club and receive instruction from a certified sailor. You can find places to sail and lots of other helpful information in the Getting Started section of U.S. Sailing’s Web site.
Joining U.S. Sailing
You must be a member of U.S. Sailing to participate in National Championships and certain other sanctioned events. Membership includes benefits such as discounts on equipment, charters and entry fees.
Major Events
- Youth Sailing Championships 6/23/05-6/29/05
Becoming a U.S. Olympian
First, a nation must qualify a spot for a boat to race at the Olympic Games. Second, U.S. Sailing hold trials for the events that will be competed at the Olympic Games. The winners of the trials then will qualify to represent the U.S. at the Olympic Games.
Please contact U.S. Sailing for specific details on the Olympic selection process.
Contact Information
web: U.S. Sailing
email: info@ussailing.org
phone: 401.683.0800
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