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In a session at the 2025 US Sailing Leadership Forum, Bring the Fun Back to Sailing Using Innovative Regatta Formats, the title implies that the fun has left sailing. Has it? Increased participation does follow fun, and growth in the sport is limited. Here are some of the observations shared:
• Conflicting commitments reduce time for traditional weekend racing.
• Conventional racing (ie, W/L courses) is expensive and labor-intensive for organizers and teams.
• Limited availability of regular crew for conventional racing.
• Casual formats and performance cruising are more inclusive and popular.
• Participation is dropping almost everywhere except in innovative, fun formats.
Alternate starting formats:
• Pursuit Starts: Staggered starts based on handicaps; reduces stress.
• Le Mans Starts: Boats anchored with sails down, adding excitement.
• Two-Way Starts: Closed courses where boats can sail in either direction.
• Rally Races: Focus on hitting a predetermined time for finishing.
Innovative race formats:
• Point-to-Point Races: Include destinations with social events.
• Mixed Formats: Buoy and distance races in multi-day events.
• Casual Races: Government mark options, harbor tours, and ‘random’ races.
• Youth & Tech Appeal: Kite/foiling slalom races, newer creative formats.
• Match/Team racing combinations: Attracts various skills.
Events with innovative formats:
• 2025 Annapolis YC 3-2-1 Invitational (Annapolis, MD)
• 2025 O’pen Skiff North American “Un-Regatta” (Pensacola, FL)
• 2025 AYC Two Bridge Fiasco Race (Annapolis, MD)
• 2025 SDYC Hot Rum Series (San Diego, CA)
• Bang & Go Back: Open to any type of boat, starting all together on a beam reach, aiming for a destination until a cannon sounds (~ 30 min), turning back on the sound to the start/finish line, first boat back wins.
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