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A formal sailing race, typically held at another lake or sailing club in LBSC’s case, where the RRS (Racing Rules of Sailing) are enforced more seriously, and there is a larger fleet of boats.

Typically, regatta attendance is reserved for CanSail 4/5/6 sailors in 420s, and members of the Optimist Race Team for Opti Racing events. 

However, in exceptional circumstances, some more experienced CanSail 3s may be approached and invited to attend events - specifically those tailored towards less seasoned sailors. This is at the coach’s discretion, and primarily depends on availability. 

Beyond improving technical sailing skills and gaining experience racing against a larger fleet, regattas are an amazing way to challenge yourself and grow as an athlete and teammate. It is a great way to make memories on and off the water

In addition, beginning in CanSail 4, skipper and crew awards are determined primarily by regatta results. 

Each regatta is different, with Lake Ontario events (eg. Steerers or CORK) being more “intense” than the ones held in cottage country. Typically at a regatta, sailors are on the water the whole day (eg. 9 am - 3 or 4 pm) with a break for lunch on the water between races. Race courses are longer than they typically are at LBSC, and there are more boats to race against.

Off the water, there are always team bonding events, depending on what regatta you attend. Should you be at CORK for example, this may mean a team escape room, or team dinner at a restaurant, whereas if you’re at Cottage Club, this may mean a bonfire with your billet family, or “Activity Night” style games. 

Regardless of the event, LBSC prides itself on a “fun and safety first” approach, and we want to make sure all racers have a positive experience. This may mean opting not to sail a race if conditions are unfavourable, or heading some less experienced sailors in early to join the chaperones/teammates should they feel unprepared to race. 

LBSC’s racing program depends on parental involvement to run a smooth racing season. There are various ways in which one can get involved, from driving to and from regattas, to preparing on/off water snacks for sailors. When your sailor is registered for an event, you will recieve detailed communications outlining role descriptions for each specific regatta.  Your child’s participation in events depends on commitment of at least one “role” per family per summer. 

Depending on the location, answers may vary, however typically the answer is no - especially on Lake Ontario. Parents can often watch as sailors launch and dock, and coaches ensure to remain in contact with parents throughout the day to update them with photos and results as they are available. 

Yes, each regatta has an awards ceremony at the end. Additionally, the way sailors place relative to other LBSC racers determines Awards Night awards as well.