Youth Race Club in East Sussex

Sharpen racing skills and build confidence in structured, instructor-led sessions designed for young sailors who want to move beyond basic sailing. The focus is on practical race techniques, including starting, mark rounding, tactics and decision-making. Coaching is tailored to experience, ensuring each sailor can develop effectively while enjoying time on the water.

⛵ Key Details

• Duration: 3 hours
• Age: 8–16 years
• Ability level: Youth Start Racing or Stage 3
• Session type: Junior race coaching
• Spaces: 6

🧠 Key Skills

• Race starts and timing
• Mark rounding strategies
• On-water tactical decision-making
• Course awareness and spatial positioning
• Confidence in competitive sailing scenarios

🌊 What to Expect

The session begins with a briefing on racing procedures, rules and expectations. Young sailors review starting sequences and practice manoeuvres that are key to success on the race course. Those needing help with rigging receive support before heading out onto the water, ensuring everyone is ready to focus fully on sailing.

On-water coaching emphasises skill application, including precise steering, consistent sail trim and positioning to gain advantage on the course. Instructors provide feedback in real time, encouraging sailors to analyse their choices and adapt tactics according to wind conditions and competitor positions.

Later in the session, sailors put together complete race sequences, linking starts, mark roundings and course navigation. Independent decision-making is encouraged, with instructors offering guidance as needed. By the end, young sailors gain both practical racing experience and improved confidence in a competitive environment.

📍 Location

Sessions take place on a sheltered inland reservoir near Forest Row in East Sussex, providing an ideal setting for youth racing development. Clearly marked racing zones and defined launch points ensure sessions run smoothly and safely.

The surrounding natural environment adds a sense of space and focus, allowing young sailors to concentrate on racing skills while enjoying the outdoors. Parents can watch from designated areas without interfering, maintaining safety and flow.

✅ Prerequisites

Your child should have completed Youth Start Racing or Stage 3 sailing, with sufficient ability to handle a boat independently on the water. Comfort with tacking, steering, and basic race manoeuvres is required to make the most of the session.

Wear clothing suitable for getting wet, along with secure footwear. Arriving ready to rig allows immediate start and maximises time spent on the water developing skills.

⭐ Why Choose Us

The club provides a supportive but challenging environment for young sailors keen on racing. Experienced instructors deliver structured coaching that balances guidance with opportunities for independent decision-making, helping children develop confidence and tactical understanding.

Attention to detail in session planning, small group sizes and carefully managed water areas ensures racing skills are built safely and effectively. Over time, this approach nurtures both competence and enjoyment, preparing young sailors for further racing opportunities, including Saturday Afternoon Race Club participation.