Red Ribbon Training and Regatta

 Optimist and RS Tera Red Ribbon Training 2026

Set against the scenic backdrop of England's south coast, Hayling Island Sailing Club has a proud tradition of developing young sailing talent. At the heart of this effort is the Red Ribbon Training Programme - a five-day course designed to gently introduce young sailors to the thrilling world of dinghy racing.

Under the guidance of Melvyn Cooper Sailing, the programme focuses on building children's self-esteem and sailing confidence, creating a positive and rewarding entry level to competitive sailing.

A cornerstone of the programme culminates in the highly anticipated Red Ribbon Regatta, an event which not only marks the end of the training but also leaves participants eager and prepared for future racing events, such as Youth Race Week and Youth Sunday Racing.

Background and further information

Red Ribbon is a hugely successful part of the HISC Youth Pathway, with children sailing across the best tides in small groups under the instruction of selected qualified RYA Dinghy Instructors and Race Coaches. The programme is aimed at sailors who have gained 10 hours experience following the completion of RYA Stage 3 (tidal water) and are familiar with sailing a triangle course.

Children involved form friendships and learn fundamental race skills that help them progress to the next stage. It is available for both Optimist and RS Tera sailors. Optimist sailors will need their own boat. RS Tera sailors are welcome to hire as required (not included in the course price) direct with the sailing club.

It’s not just about learning to race, the Red Ribbon Training Programme is about building confidence, forging friendships, and fostering a lifelong love for sailing.

How to apply for a place on Red Ribbon Training 2026

Red Ribbon Training participants are chosen through a selection process following completion of an application form.

Please read all the information carefully before applying. It may save any disappointment if your child is not ready or too experienced for Red Ribbon Training.

Handy advice: previous years has highlighted that children benefit from the programme if they are confident with boat handling in 10-14 knots without reefing.

For your interest, please open the Yachts & Yachting Red Ribbon Regatta report 2025 Link https://www.yachtsandyachting.com/news/288469/Red-Ribbon-Regatta-at-Hayling-Island

Essential Prerequisites for Optimist and RS Tera sailors.

If you are an Optimist sailor:

• Optimist sailor minimum age 9

• Completed RYA Stage 3 (tidal water) by Sunday 17 August 2025 and practiced minimum 10 hours

• Will sail a couple of times in April before Red Ribbon begins

• Can sail in 10-14 knots without reefing

If you are an RS Tera sailor:

• Minimum age 9 or min height 1.3m

• Completed RYA Stage 3 (tidal water) by Sunday 17 August 2025 and practiced minimum 10 hours

• Will sail a couple of times in April before Red Ribbon begins

• Can sail in 10-14 knots without reefing

Red Ribbon Training is not for your child if:

• They are a beginner or have only completed RYA Stage 2

• Ideally not completed RYA Stage 2 and RYA Stage 3 in the same Summer

• They are looking to start race training to head quickly into the IOCA pathway. Red Ribbon is a precursor to this, giving children the opportunity to have their first go at racing by the end of the course

Red Ribbon Training is for your child if:

• They would like to learn how to race on a triangle course and windward / leeward course

• They would like to learn how to start and finish short races

• They can commit to all dates including Red Ribbon Regatta Sunday 28 June 2026

• They would like to try racing in Youth Race Week between 3 – 7 August 2026

Red Ribbon Training dates 2026

• Sunday 19 April 2026 10:00 - 15:30 hrs

• Sunday 3 May 2026 10:00 - 15:30 hrs

• Sunday 31 May 2026 09:30 – 15:00 hrs

• Sunday 14 June 2026 09:30 – 15:00 hrs

Red Ribbon Regatta 2026

• Sunday 28 June 2026 09:30 – 15:00 hrs

Important information to read:

• Training groups will be kept small, no more than 20 children (Optimist & RS Tera combined)

• It is not possible for participants to be refunded if they are unable to make one or more days

• Parent participation is compulsory to support the Red Ribbon programme afloat & ashore

Special note: Just to say this is NOT a DROP and GO, be prepared to learn as much as your child! Parents are required to help with launching and recovery of children and will need to assist coaches afloat and on the beach

Application form 2026

To apply for a Red Ribbon place please complete the application form below. Closing date is Sunday 8 March 2026.

Red Ribbon Training application form: https://forms.gle/a7zvHKPG2jXHMZyQA

NB: Filling in the form does not guarantee a space on the course. If your child is not successful in gaining a place on Red Ribbon Training, there will be guidance on hand for other appropriate training courses.

Cost: Red Ribbon Training course and regatta guide price £300. Confirmation once numbers of participants and Instructors are known.

Payment: Once places are confirmed full payment is required to secure your child’s place which includes the Red Ribbon Regatta. Information on how to pay will be shared once the places are confirmed. Contact details: email any questions to melvyn@melvyncoopersailing.com

Melvyn Cooper - Red Ribbon Training Programme leader and co-ordinator