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Adults (16+)

RYA Start Racing

Get started in competitive sailing with this 2-day beginner race training course. Designed for adult sailors, it covers the essentials of racing in a fun and supportive environment.
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Activity overview

This intensive course is aimed at sailors holding RYA Level 2 or above who have little or no racing experience. Over two days, you’ll learn the fundamentals of race preparation, boat handling, and tactics, giving you the confidence to get off the start line and sail around a racecourse efficiently.

The course also provides an opportunity to refresh your skills if you haven’t raced in a while. From learning basic race rules and starts to understanding strategy and positioning, you’ll gain practical experience that prepares you for club racing and regattas.

What to expect

  • Understanding the racing rules of sailing
  • Effective race starts and course management
  • Basic tactics and strategy on the racecourse
  • Boat handling under race conditions
  • Confidence to participate in club racing and regattas

Prerequisites & course minimum requirements

Participants must have successfully completed the RYA Level 2 course or hold equivalent sailing experience. This ensures you have the foundational skills needed to safely and confidently take part in racing activities.

RYA Level 2

Learn more boat handling skills in double and single-handed boats, working towards the RYA Level 2 certificate.

Key information

Timings

9:30am - 4:30pm
with a break for lunch around midday

What's included

Wetsuit
Buoyancy Aid
Spray Top and Trousers
Helmet
 

What you need to bring
  • Swimwear
  • Towel
  • Drinks
  • Suncream
  • Weather appropriate clothing
  • Spare pair of closed-toe shoes to wear in the water
  • Lunch and snacks
  • Water bottle
Emma Bannister
Emma Bannister
Centre Manager

“We build our programmes around each individual’s requirements, with consideration to their needs, aspirations and strengths. Seeing the impact that a visit to ASC Reading can have on young people is incredibly rewarding, whether they’re here for a few hours to decompress, or for a week packed with adventure and new experiences.”

Timings

9:30am - 4:30pm
with a break for lunch around midday

What's included

Wetsuit
Buoyancy Aid
Spray Top and Trousers
Helmet
 

What you need to bring
  • Swimwear
  • Towel
  • Drinks
  • Suncream
  • Weather appropriate clothing
  • Spare pair of closed-toe shoes to wear in the water
  • Lunch and snacks
  • Water bottle
Ross Dixon
Ross Dixon
Chief Instructor

“At ASC Portsmouth, we pride ourselves on our state-of-the-art facilities that cater to all. Our range of activities, from sailing and kayaking to climbing and sustainability workshops, ensures an engaging experience for everyone. As a team, we are committed to creating inclusive programmes that adapt to different learning styles and abilities, ensuring every participant can challenge themselves and grow. Our experienced instructors are dedicated to helping each individual discover their potential in our unique outdoor classroom.”

Where can this take you?

Explore All Activities

After completing the RYA Start Racing, the following activities could be your next step:

Adults (16+)
Explore activity details & book
Adult Race Club

Join our Adult Race Club, weekly sessions designed to build your racing skills, confidence, and strategy in a relaxed, supportive environment.

Adults (16+)
Explore activity details & book
Adult Sailing Club

Enjoy relaxed, instructor-led sailing sessions designed to boost your confidence and skills on the water. Perfect for adults with RYA Level 1 or equivalent experience.

Prices from £25

Why book with Andrew Simpson Centres?

  • Top-Quality Equipment
    Our fleet is well-maintained and regularly updated, ensuring you train with the best sailing gear available.
  • Expert Coaching & Development
    Our professional instructors follow a structured development programme, helping you progress at every level.
  • Not-for-Profit Impact
    Every booking supports our charitable mission to make sailing accessible to all, reinvesting in the sport and future sailors.
  • Unforgettable Experience
    Whether you're learning the basics or refining race tactics, you'll gain confidence, skills, and a love for the water.
  • High Safety Standards
    Safety is our top priority, with expertly trained staff, well-maintained equipment, and strict safety protocols in place.
  • Flexible, Customised Courses
    We tailor our courses to each participant, ensuring you get the most out of your time on the water.
  • Low Instructor-to-Sailor Ratios
    Smaller group sizes mean more personalised coaching, helping you develop skills faster and with confidence.
  • Accessible for All
    We offer inclusive courses designed to support individuals with Special Educational Needs (SEN), making sailing accessible to everyone.
2 day intermediate, advanced course
from £265

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To book with childcare vouchers call 0300 124 0449
Want to pay with childcare vouchers?

Please call our centres directly on 0300 124 0449 if you would like to book with childcare vouchers.