JR Thursday Night Races

AHSEP Junior Thursday Night Races

Our Thursday Night Racing Series is designed to be a fun, supportive, and skill-building environment for young sailors ready to take their racing to the next level. Open to sailors ages 8–15, this relaxed learning series encourages confidence, independence, and sportsmanship while following the Racing Rules of Sailing in spirit. Sailors should be comfortable rigging, launching, navigating the course, and self-rescuing, as the focus is on developing capable, self-reliant racers in a safe but low-pressure setting.

2026 Registration COMING SOON

Program Description
Thursday Racing will generally follow the Racing Rules of Sailing (RRS 2025–2028); however, this is a relaxed, learning-focused series designed to promote participation and skill development. All boats must carry required safety equipment. Sailors must wear their USCG approved PFD at all times while on or near the water—no exceptions—and closed-toe shoes are required. Appropriate awareness and attire for all conditions is expected.

Program Details
Opti, Laser Standard, Laser Radial, and Laser 4.7, All Opti boats and Opti classes will be sailed and scored as one class. All ILCA/ Laser classes will be scored together, but separate from Opti. Sailors may vary rigs from week-to-week. AHSEP has Opti’s and a limited number of Lasers to borrow and you will be requested to reserve and sign these out. We expect sailors who participate to be able to manage their equipment, be able to rig solo and be able to carry themselves appropriately on the water with minimal supervision. All participants will be responsible for any damage incurred while racing.

LOCATION
Popamora Point Beach- Henry Hudson Trail , 369 Shore Drive in Highlands

SCHEDULE
Thursdays in July (9, 16, 23, 30)
5 PM EST - Arrive at Popamora Park, Rig Boat
5:15 PM EST - Chalk talk
5:20 PM EST - Launch boats
5:30 PM EST - 1st Warning Signal Lasers
5:35 PM EST - 1st Warning Signal Opti
5:30- 7PM - Racing, we will try to fit as many short races in as we can.
7 PM EST - Racing over
7-8 PM EST - De-rig, De-brief and head home

Eligibility
Ages 8-16
Sailors should be competent in rigging, launching and getting around the course without assistance. Sailors should be expected to self rescue. There will be one safety boat aside from the RC on the water.

PROGRAM OBJECTIVE & FEES

Our mission is to empower youth sailors to develop confidence and competence not only in sailing, but in racing. We achieve this through focused skill development and active participation in drills and race simulations, emphasizing preparation, starting strategy, racing rules, and mark roundings. Instruction includes a foundational understanding of the Racing Rules of Sailing to support fair and informed competition.

Fees: $100. per participant for the series

Participants will be enrolling in a 4 week-long program with the opportunity to attend any or all events based on a first come first served sign up system.

QUESTIONS? Please reach out to AHSEP via email at ahsep01@gmail.com.

All registrations must be paid to be considered enrolled. Spaces are limited.

​Fees: $100. per participant for the series

Fees: $100. per participant for the series