RYA Start Racing & Club Racing Course 2026

10th August – 14th August

Get ready for an action-packed week on the water! Our RYA Start Racing

and RYA Club Racing courses are designed for young sailors who are confident in their boat handling and ready to take their sailing to the next level through racing.

Throughout this week-long programme, sailors will develop their racing skills at a pace that suits their experience, guided by our knowledgeable and enthusiastic instructors. The RYA Start Racing course introduces the fundamentals of racing, including race starts, basic tactics, rules awareness and improving boat speed. Sailors progressing to RYA Club Racing will build on these foundations, refining race strategy, understanding race formats, improving consistency and gaining confidence in competitive environments.

This course is designed to support each sailor’s individual development. While a week provides strong exposure to racing techniques and tactics, continued practice through club racing and further coaching is recommended to fully consolidate skills.

Sailors should already be confident sailors (typically RYA Stage 3 or above, or equivalent experience).

Instructors will tailor each session to your child’s current ability, helping them progress as far as possible during the week while ensuring a fun, supportive and motivating atmosphere on the water.

Course Details

Duration: 10th August – 14th August 2026 – 5 Days (Monday to Friday)
Time: 9 am – 4 pm

Boats & Equipment: Picos, Qubes, Toppers, Fevas
Boat hire and equipment are included in the course. If you prefer, you’re welcome to use your own boat.

What Your Sailor Will Learn

Throughout the RYA Start Racing and RYA Club Racing courses, sailors will develop the key skills and confidence needed to enjoy and succeed in racing.

Racing Fundamentals (RYA Start Racing)

The basic principles of sail racing

How a race is organised and different race formats

Starting techniques and timing the start

Introduction to racing rules and right of way

Improving boat speed through sail trim and boat handling

Simple race tactics and decision making

Developing Race Skills (RYA Club Racing)

Advanced starting strategies and positioning

Upwind and downwind tactics

Mark roundings and race strategy

Reading wind shifts and using them effectively

Greater understanding of the racing rules

Consistency, confidence and performance in club race settings

 Personal Development

Increased confidence in competitive environments

Improved boat control under pressure

Better awareness of wind, water and other boats

Teamwork (where applicable) and sportsmanship

Independence and decision-making on the water

What to Bring

Appropriate sailing kit (wetsuit, spray top, boots, buoyancy aid)

Swimming costume, towel, and spare trainers you don’t mind getting wet

Snacks, drinks and a packed lunch (please bear in mind this is a nut free environment)

Warm clothes for before and after sailing

Pen, notepad, sailing watch, sun cream and cap (if needed)

Don’t have sailing kit? Don’t worry—we’ve got you covered!

Please avoid wellies, crocs or flip-flops for safety reasons.