Win before you begin: a pre-regatta prep guide for young racers

Getting ready for a big regatta isn’t just about rocking up and racing, it starts way before the first start gun sounds.

If you want to have the best chance of hitting your goals at your key season events, you need to be prepared. 

Here are some top tips on how to get ahead of the game before you launch for that first race.

Get the inside scoop on the venue

It sounds basic, but checking the weather for your training and race days before you travel is key. It’s not just about knowing the likely wind conditions you’ll face; it’s also about making sure you pack the right kit! Being comfortable on and off the water makes a huge difference when it comes to racing at your best.

Local knowledge is gold, so if you know someone who’s raced at the venue before, pick their brains about it! They might give you tips on the best sources of local wind data so you know what to expect, how to handle tricky wind shifts, or even find the best boat park spots.

Be sure to check out any online information that shows the flow of the tide and what to expect. This small bit of homework could be the difference between nailing your layline or getting swept the wrong way.

Read the documents (yes, really!)

Nobody wants to be that sailor who arrives on the startline and realises they have no clue about the course layout or a specific rule that could cost them places. 

Make sure you read the Notice of Race (NoR), Sailing Instructions (SIs) and Equipment Inspection Regulations (EIRs) before you get there, and ask the PRO or your Race Officer, a member of the jury, the measurer, a coach or someone from the race office team if you’re unsure about anything.

Some things to find out:

• Your schedule
• Where the race areas are located
• What you’re supposed to do with any spare equipment or trailers
• Any local sailing rules you need to know
• If there are restrictions on where and when you can launch or train
• What you need to do for equipment inspection, and when
• What are the tally procedures for training and race days

The more you know in advance, the smoother things will be when you arrive.

Don’t overtrain

It can be tempting to train hard in the days before the regatta, but you don’t want to start the event already exhausted.

Instead, focus on the big picture. Get familiar with the venue, sail a bit to feel comfortable, but don’t stress over every little detail. The goal is to arrive fresh, sharp, and excited to get going, not fatigued because you’ve tried to pack in too much.

The last days before the regatta should be about rest and getting mentally ready. Light training is great, perhaps join any class-run training or get together with a group for some simple start exercises and manoeuvres to help get you in the zone.

Make sure you get plenty of sleep, eat properly and stay hydrated.

Embrace the nerves

Feeling nervous before a regatta? That’s completely normal! Even top sailors can get some pre-race butterflies. The key is learning to use that energy in a positive way.

Instead of letting nerves mess with your confidence, remind yourself:

• You’ve prepared well
• You know what to expect at the venue
• You’re ready to put everything into action on race day
• It’ll be fun!

Try and use your nerves to fuel your focus instead of stressing over them.

The time you invest in your pre-event prep will provide a great foundation for the week ahead. By researching the venue, managing your energy, getting solid rest and staying confident, you’ll give yourself the best chance of success from day one.