Learning to Race

If you ever wanted to participate in sailboat racing:
no experience necessary only willingness and commitment.

We will be learning to race the 34' J105 and then do a 13 mile race on Galveston Bay with a great fleet of boats. We will rig the boat for racing and then get out to practice tacks, and spinnaker launch and take downs, and work on moving around the boat confidently. There is some athleticism required and hydration and proper clothing, footwear and sailing gloves are key to staying safe and comfortable. +++Light clothing that can take a splash, sun protection (sunscreen, hat, sunglasses) and boat friendly shoes are required. +++Sailing gloves highly recommended and can be found at Home Depot instead of West Marine $$$$: $15 firm grip general purpose gloves will do. You probably have clothes in the closet that will work, and bring some dry ones to change into--we might get wet plus there is a fun party afterwards.
GBCA (Galveston Bay Cruising Association) sponsors a fun party after racing with free beer and rum, of course, with some food to enjoy. Make new contacts and get launched into the sailing community.

Racing starts 5:09 pm and should be over approximately 8pm or sooner depending on wind. We will confirm weather conditions Friday.

I have been training racers for 20 years here and am getting back to it. If you are interested in checking out the racing scene, join us for a session. I will help you become valuable crew and I can you plug into the community. Skippers are always looking for crew and I can help you expand your horizons onto other boats and other shorelines.

Commitment to showing up on time is most important for racing crew. The team is depending on you. If you sign up, please make every effort to alert me at least 24 hours ahead of event if something comes up and you can not attend.

Please call or text with any questions: Alan Bates 281.212.7348