Racing Programs at Kitsilano Yacht Club

Ready to push your skills, build confidence, and join a racing community on English Bay? Whether you're a youth sailor looking to step into competition or an adult sailor eager to test your speed, Kitsilano Yacht Club's Racing Programs are designed to take you further.

These programs are the next step for sailors who’ve completed CANSail 1 or higher, offering targeted coaching in a fun, supportive, and high-energy environment. From your first start sequence to your next regatta podium, we’re here to help you grow.

Youth Sailing Team - Opti

Ages: 7–13

Prerequisite: Completion of CANSail 1 or equivalent experience

Ready to try sailboat racing? Let's go!

The KYC Youth Sailing Team - Opti is perfect for young sailors who are excited to take their skills to the next level. Designed for those with a solid foundation in sailing, this program introduces the fundamentals of racing in Optimist dinghies—focusing on boat speed, control, and confidence on the course.

Through a combination of on-water training, fun drills, and regatta experiences, sailors will develop independence, sportsmanship, and sailing skills in a supportive, team-based environment.

Led by passionate and experienced coaches, the Opti Team helps young athletes grow both as sailors and teammates—building a love for the sport that lasts well beyond the finish line.

Program Highlights

Introduction to racing skills: starting, mark roundings, and simple strategy
Age-appropriate training focused on fun, progress, and confidence
Participation in local regattas and club events (as appropriate)
Supportive team environment with mentorship and friendship at its core

Come join our team—let's race together on English Bay!

Per month:

Cost: $375 (plus GST)

KYC Member Cost: $325 (plus GST)

May - Tuesday 4:30pm-7:30pm / Friday 4:30pm-7:30pm / Sunday 11:00am-3:00pm

June - Ending June 26 - Tuesday 4:30pm-7:30pm / Friday 4:30pm-7:30pm / Sunday 11:00am-3:00pm

Please note: regatta participation is optional, and there is an additional coaching fee of $75 to help cover costs for non-KYC regattas.

Sign up here!

Meet our Coaches

Anya Richmond

Anya is an enthusiastic coach who is passionate about helping young sailors build confidence, develop strong skills, and foster a lasting love for the sport of sailing. With several years of experience coaching and supporting junior sailing programs, she brings a supportive and encouraging approach to the Opti Race Team at Kitsilano Yacht Club.

Anya places a strong focus on creating a positive team environment where athletes feel excited to learn, motivated to challenge themselves, and able to enjoy their time on the water exploring English Bay. She is committed to helping sailors develop strong fundamentals, build racing experience, and gain the independence and resilience that are essential both on and off the water. She looks forward to supporting each sailor’s growth throughout the season and super excited to meet the team!

Holly Bolger

Holly is an energetic and versatile coach who loves helping young sailors turn curiosity into confidence on the water. She has guided sailors through every stage of the CANSail curriculum and led race teams in Optimists, Club 420s, ILCAs, Martin 16s. She also works with the Adaptive Sailing Association of BC, championing inclusive, athlete-centred instruction for sailors of all abilities.

Now working toward her Sail Canada Development Coach certification, she’s eager to share fresh ideas and proven racing strategies with our athletes. Above all, she strives to create a safe, positive team culture where sailors are great teammates, think strategically, and discover pure joy in every wave and wind shift.

She can’t wait to meet the team and see what the season holds!

Ready to Get Started?

Spots fill up fast—secure your place today and start your sailing journey!

Questions? Email us or call (604) 730-1646.