by Craig Leweck, Scuttlebutt Sailing News
WindCheck magazine publisher Benjamin Cesare offers comments about the sport in the October 2024 edition, and while I agree with his observations, I contend they are symptoms of how youth programming has changed.

An emphasis in the USA on club-owned boats, scholastic scheduling, and comprehensive coaching has kept more kids engaged longer, though in a narrow lane. And depending on the leadership, kids may not experience anything else, which leads to attrition.

Ownership in the sport is not accrued, and for young sailors that do continue sailing in their 20s, events that provide boats are attractive. Team racing and club challenge regattas have benefited in this era, whereas one design racing has not.

I continue to preach that the best way for a teenager to stay in the sport is to be introduced early to the type of sailing they won’t age out of. One design classes are great examples, as they foster ownership in level racing and community which have holding power. For Ben’s column, click here.