We are excited to announce the launch of the Sail Durango Junior Race Team, an opportunity for sailors who are ready to take their skills to the next level.

For those of you wondering, unfortunately no- we don’t race the sunfish anymore. :)

Over the past several seasons, we have watched many sailors progress from learning the basics of sailing to confidently handling boats, working as a team, and developing leadership on the water. The Junior Race Team is designed to provide those sailors with a pathway to continue growing, challenging themselves, and representing Sail Durango at local and regional regattas.

What is Race Team?

Race Team is an advanced sailing program focused on developing competitive sailing skills in a supportive, team-oriented environment. Sailors will learn:

• Starting strategies

• Boat speed and sail trim

• Racing rules

• Tactics and decision making

• Mark roundings

• Teamwork and sportsmanship

• Regatta preparation and competition skills

While racing is the focus, our primary goal is helping young sailors build confidence, resilience, leadership, and problem-solving skills that will serve them both on and off the water.

Program Details

Wednesdays, 3:00 PM – 6:00 PM
8-Week Season
Tuition: $650

Open to sailors who have successfully completed Level 2 or Level 3 sailing programs, or who have equivalent sailing experience.

The program will include on-the-water drills, practice races, and coaching designed to prepare sailors for competitive regattas.

Regatta and Travel Opportunities

One of the most exciting parts of Race Team is the opportunity to travel, compete, and build friendships with sailors from other programs throughout the region.

This season, Sail Durango plans to attend:

Carter Lake Junior Fun Regatta
July 18–19, 2026

Park City Fall Regatta
September 12–13, 2026

For away regattas, sailors travel as a team and typically camp together, creating memorable experiences both on and off the water. Families are welcome and encouraged to travel alongside their sailors.

Participation in travel regattas is optional and not required to be a member of the Race Team.

Please note that coaching fees, travel expenses, regatta registration fees, boat charter fees, camping costs, and other event-related expenses vary from event to event and are the responsibility of each participating family.

In addition to away events, Sail Durango will host at least one fun regatta at Lake Nighthorse this season, giving sailors an opportunity to race on home waters and share the experience with family and friends. As our program grows, we hope to host larger regional regattas in future seasons, bringing sailors from across the region to Durango.

Who Should Join?

Race Team is a great fit for sailors who:

• Love being on the water

• Enjoy learning new skills

• Are motivated to improve

• Want to sail more often

• Are interested in competition and teamwork

• Hope to develop leadership skills through sailing

Previous racing experience is not required. Enthusiasm, commitment, and a willingness to learn are the most important qualifications.

Not a Junior and Interested in Racing or Coaching?

Sail Durango is also growing opportunities beyond our junior programs. We are expanding adult racing and coaching pathways, including development and racing opportunities in the Melges 15 fleet, one of the fastest-growing double-handed classes in North America.

Adult sailors, parents, and community members are welcome to participate in coaching sessions, regional regattas, and on-the-water training opportunities throughout the season. Whether you are new to racing or looking to sharpen your skills, there are pathways to get involved.

We are also actively seeking volunteers to support our home regatta at Lake Nighthorse. Volunteer roles include race committee support, safety boat assistance, scoring, launching and recovery, hospitality, and general event operations. No prior experience is required—training and support will be provided.