Racing

Racing

Lake Harriet is well known for its large and active racing community. TCSC has lots of racing MC scows and members are out there racing every summer! The Lake Harriet Yacht Club, (est. 1941) with help from TCSC organizes the races and regattas on the lake. Our members are able to participate racing on the lake in one of three ways:

  1. Skipper in a race
  2. Crew in a race
  3. Safety boat

How Do I Get Involved?

Racing Skipper – If you are TCSC club skipper, you can join the races by taking the racing assessment (see below) and the racing quiz. Once you have been assessed and passed, you get a score number. Your score number is used to keep track of your score across races over the course of the season. Email racing@tcsailing.com for more info on how to become a racing skipper.

Racing Crew – If you want to do more than just watch the race, volunteer to be crew; racers are always looking for crew. As crew, you are usually expected to work the side boards, balance the boat, and give the skipper tactical information. If you are interested in being a crew person, contact the Racing Coordinator or members of the Lake Harriet Yacht Club. Email racing@tcsailing.com.

Safety Boat – The easiest way to get out on the water during races is to hop in the safety boat. In the safety boat (a motor boat) your job is to watch the race. If any boats capsize, you ask if they need assistance, and provide assistance if necessary. In addition, you act as a ferry for the racers before and after the race. LHYC offers safety boat training once a year and all TCSC members are welcome. Email racing@tcsailing.com.

When Are the Races?

Weekends: Races are held on Saturdays and Sundays throughout the season, May to September.

Two races are held on Saturdays; the first begins at 1:00 pm.  From start of the first race to the finish of the second race is usually 2-3 hours.  There is one race on Sunday that begins at 10:30 am. Monday holiday races begin at 10:30 am. From start to finish the race is often just over an hour long.

Wednesday nights: Informal racing is held on Wednesday nights, starting at 6:30, June through August. There are usually three or four short races. Races are typically 20-30+ minutes each.

Wednesday night races are typically followed by a social gathering which will occur outdoors on shore. Racers may bring their own picnic or make purchases at Bread and Pickle.

How Do I Get A Racing Score Number?

  1. Join TCSC and become a club skipper.
  2. Crew in a Race*
  3. Complete the On-Water Assessment:* Rig a boat solo at a buoy; solo buoy departure and landing; solo sail rolling and de-rigging at buoy; In-irons (30 seconds);
  4. Read the LHYC Sailing Instructions lhycsailing.com/racinginfo
  5. Take the TCSC racing quiz. This is an open-book quiz (you may complete it at home, and bring the finished race to the dock).
  6. Get Your Racing Score Number. Obtained from the TCSC racing coordinator.

* Can be completed during F2SF On-water Practice in May.

Spring Fun2SailFast Program: for New and Returning Racers

Fun2SailFast is TCSC’s spring racing “how-to” and practice program, offering orientation and training for sailors new to racing.  It also helps returning racers prepare for the coming season by reviewing basic strategy, rules and techniques.  All are members are welcome, however, Fun2SailFast seminars benefit most those members who have already skippered out and are racing ready.

  • Fun2SailFast – Pre-season Racing Orientations: Feb-April
    In winter/early spring months we prepare for the coming racing season with informal seminars for learning and improving racing skills and techniques.
  • Fun2SailFast – On-Water Practice and F2SF Challenge: Wednesdays in May
    Practice: On Wednesday nights during May it’s time to practice, practice, practice! Beginners and returning racers do starting drills and practice power-ups, boat handling, up-wind legs, buoy rounding, and lots more.

Safety Boat – An exciting way to get out on the water during races is to assist in a safety boat. The safety boat (a motor boat) has the responsibility to provide event coordination and lake safety during races. If any boats capsize, safety boat provides assistance if necessary.  In addition, the safety boat acts as a ferry for the racers before and after the race. LHYC offers safety boat training once a year and all TCSC members are welcome.

If you want to race, crew or work on the safety boat… Get more information or sign up for training.  Email the Racing Coordinator at racing@tcsailing.com.