Who should take this course?
Confident sailors, with intermediate to advanced experience in prams. Especially those with the drive to learn new skills. Students are most comfortable if they are under 5’ or 120lbs. Those over this height or weight should consider a 420 based course.

What will my child learn?
Pram (Optimist) racers will train under the racing rules of sailing for practice and will learn to compete in events with other sailors of their talent level in low key local regattas & competitions. Advanced students will train in the same regattas, honing their skills with the option to travel to events across the midwest. Fees for regattas, travel, coach travel, and housing are beyond the scope of this registration - though the coaching itself is included. Students will learn to confidently sail their boats single handedly around a set course, learn right of way rules, and refine the skills needed to sail in competition formats.

Where are the races?
Sailors are urged to participate in the Twin Cities Youth Sailing Series, held on Fridays at the various metro lakes throughout the summer. For qualified sailors, travel to out of state regattas is also available and encouraged. Tuition fees cover training at the sailing center and coaching at regattas. Fees for Twin Cities Youth Sailing registration, travel, and additional regattas are not included. Sailors are also encouraged to participate in our casual Tuesday night racing series by purchasing a season pass, racing follows class Tuesday nights.

Do we need a boat?
Boats will be provided if registering for the (WS boat) option. If you have your own optimist, please register for the (BYO boat) option and we will provide storage space free of charge for the duration of the course.