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Next: Is the MacGregor 26 Up: Sailing Stuff Previous: Addresses of class associations

How can I get into sailboat racing as a crew member?

The racers on the net seem to have a concensus on this (at least for crewing on large boats). Since I wrote this originally, I got the following words from mp, which seemed so relevant that I've put them first: ``you should add that if you want to get experience as neophyte crew, you need to show up consistently. Most owners can put up with you not knowing the ropes and would be willing to teach you what you need to know as long as they know you'll be there every week.''

(1) Go to local yacht clubs that have regular race series and post an index card on the bulletin board saying that you are new to racing, but would like a crew position. Give phone numbers where you can be reached, and put a date on the card so that people know it's active. (Ask the club steward about where to post the card, and whether it's OK).

(2) Go hang out on the dock on whatever evening the local fleet races, and ask around if anyone knows of someone who needs crew. Come dressed for the occasion; bring a foul-weather suit if it's windy, and wear tennis shoes or boat shoes. Have a hat. If you bring other stuff (sweater, dry set of clothes) pack it in a small athletic bag or knapsack. Show up an hour before race time and let various people know you are there and available. The club steward, the launch boy/girl, and the dockmaster are all good choices.

(3) Make it clear that you are serious-if the skipper says ``can you be there an hour before the race to help pack the 'chute?'', say ``Yes.'' Volunteer to help out with Spring work on the boat. If you have to miss a race on a boat on which you've been racing regularly, let the skipper know at least 3 days in advance. Let people know that you are willing to come out every single week to race. If not, word that you are unreliable will get around.

(4) Listen and learn. Don't go aboard expecting to tell everyone everything you know. If it turns out that you know more than they do, keep quiet about it. Your quiet competence will eventually show through.


next up previous
Next: Is the MacGregor 26 Up: Sailing Stuff Previous: Addresses of class associations
John F. Hughes
11/6/1997