Regatta Point Community Sailing is offering a summer full of fun and learning for all youngsters aged 7-17 at Hopkinton State Park.
“Our culture, our philosophy, is ‘Boating for all,’ and we stand by it,” said Casey Duva, Regatta Point executive director. “It means we will find a way to work with all families using our available funds to make sure no kid is turned away from our summer sailing program.”
In past years, the organization has awarded $12,000 in scholarships.
Regatta Point Community Sailing began 65 years ago by offering lessons and rentals on Worcester’s Lake Quinsigamond. In 2024, the nonprofit expanded to Hopkinton State Park when it was awarded the boating concession there by the state.
“Being a nonprofit means we can focus on the individual rather than the finances,” said Duva. “We work hard on fundraising to make sure no kids are turned away from our camps. We want kids to have a safe and healthy summer in a place where they can disconnect from technology, since water and cell phones don’t mix.”
The Regatta Point Summer Camp runs from June 16 through Aug. 17. Classes are divided by age levels and provide instruction for all skill levels. Besides sailing, participants learn how to paddle board and kayak plus enjoy games and swimming all while building confidence on and off the water.
The Boating for All Summer Camp, for ages 7-12, offers weekly lessons for the newer sailor, teaching youngsters the basics of sailing in a small group setting of 10 students to one instructor. Duva said the classes build on each other, so youngsters can enjoy a full summer of sailing.
The Junior Program, for ages 13-17, focuses on helping teens hone their sailing skills on larger boats. The program, with its three-week sessions, also fosters socialization.
“Teens really like hanging out with their friends,” said Duva, “and our program encourages that. It also helps train teens to become our future instructors.”
“Our camps are a great way for kids to learn a skill and have fun during the summer. A cool thing about the sport is that girls and boys, women and men, can compete on equal footing. It is a great sport for anyone,” added Duva.
For more information, to register for the Hopkinton Regatta Point summer camp or to donate visit RegattaPoint.org, email Info@RegattaPoint.org or call 508-757-2140.
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I participated in the sailing program in 1963 as a kid. One of the best experiences of my youth and learning to sail is a skill I’ve used in my adult life!