What do we sail?
Most high school sailing is fleet racing in double-handed dinghies such as the Flying Junior, or “FJ”. There are also single-handed regattas in Lasers or Laser Radials, and team races in FJs.
What happens at a high school regatta?
High school teams arrive at the host club early in the morning with cars full of kids and their sailing gear, towing trailers with up to six FJs. Each high school team has at least four members, two skippers and two crew. All boats are entered into a rotation. The A skippers and crew take to the water and sail the first two races. In the meantime the B teams remain ashore waiting their turn to sail. After two races the boats sail in and the A teams jump out while another school’s B team jumps into the boat to sail two races. This A/B flip-flop continues throughout the regatta. Since only half of the sailors are on the water at a time, there is a lot of fun interaction between teams while on shore.
A team’s score is cumulative of their A and B scores. Races are generally short, with the goal of both A and B teams completing six races each day.
Are there opportunities to join my school’s sailing team?
Yes! We are hosting sailing evaluations for both skipper and crew positions. To participate in evaluations, sailors must have recent/relevant sailing experience. If you are interested in joining the team but lack experience, the St. Francis Yacht Club offers learn to sail courses as well as summer sailing camps.
When does it start?
Fall sailing evaluations are in late August at the St. Francis Yacht Club.
How much does it cost?
The fee to sail is $675. Regatta expenses are additional, but reasonable. They include registration fees, food, lodging and travel.
What are the benefits of joining the sailing team?
- Sailing is a co-ed competitive sport
- Colleges actively recruit talented sailors for their college teams
- Sailing not only involves a high level of physical strength and agility but it teaches students about navigation, physics, the marine environment, SF Bay and the importance of teamwork
- Sailing is a worldwide activity that can take you around the globe and provide an instant introduction to people in every country
- Sailing is a sport you will enjoy throughout your life
What are the benefits of sailing out of St. Francis Yacht Club?
- Access to world-class facilities including locker rooms with showers and saunas
- Safe, quality access to the water.
- Supervised use of a fleet of FJ sailboats
- Safety and rescue boats on the water at all times with liability coverage through the Club
- Professional coaching during regattas and practices
What is required to sail at StFYC?
- Completed registration forms
- Payment
- Proof of swimming ability
- Enthusiasm and commitment
- Two days of out-of-practice physical fitness every week