The mission of the Darien Junior Sailing Program is to provide a safe, fun and empowering learning environment in which to develop the skills required for sailing; to promote personal growth and independence within the sport, to achieve proficient levels
 
 
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OPTIMIST SAILING PROGRAM - 2023
Open to sailors 8–15 years of age.  Four levels of instruction are offered, ranging from basic sailing fundamentals through advanced racing technique.  
More advanced Opti sailors may have the opportunity to participate in local regattas.

CLUB 420 / Laser PROGRAM - 2023

The Club 420 / Laser instruction will be offered to sailors 13 years and older, and others who have demonstrated proficiency in racing.  

 

OPTIMIST PROGRAM

 

Session 1 (3 weeks): June 19 - July 7, 2023

Session 2 (3 weeks): July 10 - July 28, 2023

Session 3 (2 weeks): July 31 - August 11, 2023

 

OPTIMIST MORNING SESSIONS - MON-FRI  9:15-12:15

LEVEL 1

For first-time sailors and those with no prior (or with limited) experience sailing an Optimist.  Learn the basic fundamentals of sailing, including technique, rigging, proper boat handling and maintenance.
 
LEVEL 2
For sailors with at least one full session of experience sailing an Optimist, and who have demonstrated readiness to sail an Optimist alone. Strengthen fundamental sailing skills, improve boat handling, and master the ability to rig an Optimist without assistance.

 

OPTIMIST AFTERNOON SESSIONS - MON-FRI  1:30-4:30

LEVEL 3 - INTERMEDIATE SAILING & INTRODUCTION TO RACING

For intermediate and advanced sailors who have mastered the fundamentals and are interested developing advanced sailing techniques, including racing skills and strategies. Opportunity to participate in local regattas.

LEVEL 4 - ADVANCED OPTI SAILING & RACING TECHNIQUES

For secure sailors who want to hone their racing skills.  Opportunities to participate in local JSA regattas.  Potential to try out 420 sailing late in the season.

OLDER NOVICE OPTI SAILORS

A learn-to-sail program for older novice sailors with no prior (or with limited) experience sailing an Optimist.  Must be at least 11 years old by the end of Session 2 to participate.  Learn the basic fundamentals of sailing, including technique, rigging, proper boat handling and maintenance.

 

CLUB 420 / LASER PROGRAM

Session 1 (3 weeks): June 19 - July 7, 2023

Session 2 (3 weeks): July 10 - July 28, 2023

Session 3 (2 weeks): July 31 - August 11, 2023

 

CLUB 420 / LASER AFTERNOON SESSIONS -  MON-FRI  1:30-4:30

CLUB 420 / LASER PROGRAM

Novice 420 sailors will learn to sail as skipper and crew in the 2-person boat, with a focus on fundamentals and beginning racing techniques. Intermediate 420 sailors will hone their racing skills and may have a chance to participate in JSA regattas. New for 2023, we will offer instruction in Lasers, a 1-person boat. Must be 13 years of age prior to or during the DJST season, or have demonstrated proficiency in sailing in more challenging conditions and in racing in other classes of boats.