SUP/Sail

Challenge Yourself With Sailboat Racing -Essential Tips to Get Started

posted on : June 22, 2023 posted by : GNExplorer 0 Comment

Now is the perfect time to try racing

If you have basic sailing skills and are looking for a new adventure, then racing sailboats could be for you.  Many adults write off racing sailboats as too intense or only for young people. I highly recommend trying this new challenge to add to your sailing repertoire.

Racing will improve your sailing skills, especially if you are in a smaller two or three-person boat like a Flying Scot. Through the repetition that comes naturally with racing you will perfect your boat handling.  You will be focused constantly on the wind and how it is affecting your boat speed which is invaluable knowledge. You will expand your brain power by learning the intricate rules of racing including who has the right of way, how to round a mark and how to have a good start.

The committee boat manages the start and finish of the course.
The committee boat manages the start and finish of the course.

Finding a place to race can be tricky.  Many cities and towns situated on bodies of water have a community sailing program that may offer adult racing. For example, Community Boating on the Charles River in Boston has a variety of adult sailing classes and a thriving racing program. I’m fortunate that my local maritime center offers adult racing in the spring and fall. The program I participate in is built on a mentorship philosophy. There is always a seasoned skipper in the boat along with more novice crew. It has been my experience that all the skippers have been incredibly generous with sharing their knowledge with the less advanced sailors like me and rotating positions in the boat to foster learning all aspects.

The key to enjoying racing sailboats is to keep in mind that somedays are just going to be better than other days. Windy days are more stressful because the boat can heel suddenly, and you may quickly need to let out the sail and ease the main to depower the boat. Some nerves are to be expected. I learn better under calmer conditions even if it means the boat is moving a little slower, so I prefer lighter wind, but it’s up to Mother Nature on any given day. My favorite part of the day is post-race camaraderie as we ride back together on the launch trading war stories and joking with each other.

This Flying Scot races ahead of the fleet.
This Flying Scot eluded our boat all morning.

Here are some helpful tips and gear information for your initial experience racing sailboats:

Gear Info:

  • A Good life vest like this one, made for sailing, is important.
  • Gloves might seem like overkill, but you can easily get rope burn pulling in the jib. These get the job done.
  • Polarized Sunglasses help you see when you’re out on the water. To prevent losing your glasses overboard consider using an eyeglass strap like this one.  
  • Hats protect your face from frying in the sun along with plenty of sunblock. Lots of people favor a baseball hat, but I swear by a hat with a chin strap such as this one, so I don’t have to worry about it blowing off.
  • Waterproof shells are important for warmth and staying dry if it starts to rain. I have been very happy with my Showers Pass jacket, but there are sailing specific jackets available online from a variety of manufacturers. Additionally, you might want foul weather pants or spray pants if the weather turns wet.
  • A quick dry UV shirt like this one is comfortable under a life vest and further protects you from the sun.
  • Rubber soled close toed shoes help protect your feet.  For cold or wet weather these boots are on my wish list.
  • A small drybag is an option to put a water bottle, a granola bar, some Band-Aids, and any other small items you may need. Don’t bring things that can’t get wet and be careful where you stow your car keys.
Gearing up is important especially when the weather is cold and wet.
Gearing up on a misty day before sailing

Helpful Info:

  • Weather – Always look at the marine forecast before you head out on the water.
  • Read up on basic boat rigging for the class of boat you’ll be sailing. I find YouTube videos to be particularly helpful for boat rigging and knot tying.   
  • Read up on the rules of racing. US Sailing is a great resource but their regatta rules are more complicated. This website is geared more toward the beginner.  It is important you know which boat has the right of way, strategies for the start of the race and the different signals you’ll be listening for, and the proper way to round the mark.
  • Dave Dellenbaugh Sailing website is a treasure trove of racing information.
A Flying Scot catches a puff of wind.
There’s no catching this boat.

This summer is the perfect time to try racing if you are looking for something new and challenging. If you are also interested in stand-up paddling, click here for my recent post about getting started. Please click subscribe in the upper right-hand corner of your screen so you don’t miss any of my posts. I welcome your feedback.