The Seahorse program at Lakewood Yacht Club gives young sailors the perfect blend of fun, skill-building, and high-level competition. Our athletes compete across the Texas Sailing Association circuit and on national and international stages, backed by coaches who are as passionate about developing character as they are about winning races.
Whether your sailor is brand new or race-ready, our year-round programs—camps, clinics, Learn-to-Sail, and advanced racing—offer a pathway to confidence, community, and top-tier results:
LEARN TO SAIL
FALL 2026 SCHEDULE
First day of the program: 22 August 2026, Saturday
Last day of the program: 22 November 2026, Sunday
Saturday and Sunday: 9:00 a.m to 11:30 a.m.
There’s a moment you can’t quite teach — you can only watch it happen. A child leaves the dock, alone with open water and a decision to make. At first, it’s simple. Then it clicks: every choice matters, and the outcome is theirs. That’s where confidence begins.
At Lakewood Yacht Club, we start with curiosity. Kids learn to prepare, to think ahead, to take responsibility for what’s theirs. They help each other without being asked. And out on the water, when things don’t go as planned, they adjust, try again, and keep going. That’s where resilience takes root.
In a world full of digital screens, this feels different. It’s quieter. More real. They begin to notice the rhythm of the world around them and somewhere along the way, start to trust themselves.
Our instructors guide without getting in the way, creating space for kids to discover what they’re capable of. Because this isn’t just about learning to sail. It’s about learning confidence, independence, and believing they can handle what comes next.
Ages: 6–12
Experience: Previous participation in our Learn to Sail program is recommended. No experience required.
Boats Provided: Optimist Class
Course Fees: LYC Members $485 / Non-members $680
Curriculum: The curriculum includes sailing and trimming at different points of sail, rigging, and derigging, and having fun in boats.
Evaluation: Throughout the program, our coaches continuously assess each sailor's development and provide ongoing feedback to ensure they are progressing confidently through every stage of the program. Parents are kept informed of their sailor's progress as needed.
Program Materials
Students should arrive prepared with:
Appropriate buoyancy aid (required)
Sea shorts
UV-protected Lycra t-shirt
Neoprene suit (optional)
Sea shoes (plastic sole; quick-dry)
Swimsuit
Hat
Sunscreen
Towel
Spare dry clothes
Water bottle
Sunglasses (optional)
Safety
Safety is our highest priority. All sailors must wear a buoyancy aid at all times while on or near the water. Lakewood Yacht Club operates within a private, sheltered sailing facility with controlled access and comprehensive safety protocols. From risk assessments to emergency response plans, our team is trained, prepared, and equipped for every scenario — ensuring a secure and supportive environment for every young sailor.
What's Next?
Sailors who have successfully completed the Learn to Sail program and receive coach approval are invited to join our Green Fleet program. Green Fleet provides the perfect next step for sailors looking to build confidence, improve boat handling, and develop introductory racing skills in a fun and supportive environment. Our coaching staff will evaluate each sailor's readiness and recommend the appropriate program. Contact our team to learn about upcoming Green Fleet sessions and enrollment opportunities.
RACING TEAMS
Registration for the 2026 Fall Program is now open.
Click on the program flyer to view the schedule and pricing.
At Lakewood Yacht Club, youth racing is more than a path to the podium — it’s a pathway to mastery. Our structured, athlete-focused program equips young sailors with the confidence, competitive awareness, and technical fluency required to thrive in any racing environment.
The Seahorse coaching team combines elite experience with personalized development plans tailored to each athlete’s strengths and ambitions. With intentionally small training groups and year-round preparation, sailors gain the tactical insight, boat speed, and race-ready mindset that drive meaningful results.
From first-time racers to athletes with global goals, we offer a progression that challenges, inspires, and elevates. And while our track record spans top finishes around the world, the true victory is the community of teammates who push each other — and grow together. Explore our programs:
OPTI CAMP 2027
2027 dates: 7 - 11 June
Registration details will be published soon. Stay tuned!
Summer starts with a push from the doc — and suddenly, everything feels possible. At Opti Camp 2027, kids don’t just learn something new; they sail into it. One day they’re figuring it out, the next they’re moving with confidence, guided by steady coaching, surrounded by friends, and fueled by the kind of fun that only happens outside, in motion, fully engaged.
Each day brings something different. Time on the water. Moments of laughter back on shore. Small wins that turn into real confidence. Whether they’re brand new or already comfortable out there, they’ll leave with more than skills. They’ll leave with stories, friendships, and a sense of independence that stays with them long after summer ends.
Ages: 7–13 (Grades 2 – 8)
Experience: No experience required.
Boats Provided: Optimist boats for younger sailors, FJs for older participants.
Course Fees: LYC Members $740 / Non-members $1000
Late Registration Deadline: The deadline for registration is 10 days before the camp start date. After this date, a late registration fee will apply.
Late Fee: $100
Curriculum: The curriculum includes sailing basics, boat handling, and trimming techniques. Kids will also enjoy water sports, teamwork activities, and outdoor fun.
Course Materials
Students should arrive prepared with:
Swimsuit, rash guard & shorts
Buff/gaiter to provide sun protection
Water shoes that stay attached to the feet – no flip-flops!
Coast Guard approved life jacket with whistle attached
Sunglasses
Hat
Towel
Sunscreen
Towel
Dry bag (Waterproof bag)
Refillable water bottle
Change of clothes (optional)
Safety
Safety is our highest priority. Campers must wear life jackets on the water and pass a swim test (life jacket assistance allowed).
What's Next?
After completing the Optimist Camp, campers can continue their sailing journey with our advanced programs. Participants will have the opportunity to join our development programs where our experienced coaches will assess their skills and guide them to the next level.
