About Us
Darien Junior Sailing Team
DJST provides all Darien area families the opportunity to try the sport of sailing without the hassle and expense of owning your own boat! We have a fleet of 28 Optimists, four Club 420s and a Laser for participants to enjoy.
We have been operating for over forty years at Weed Beach with tremendous success cultivating loyalty to our program with hundreds of returning sailors, and many rotating through to instructor level. We are proud of our long term family associations and of the efforts of all the volunteers who have kept us going. This season is poised to continue that excitement, and we look forward to meeting new faces, new volunteers and new sailors!
Our Program
DJST offers programs from novice to advanced level junior sailors at Weed Beach, including instruction in Optimist sailboats for sailors 8-15 years of age and in Club 420s and Lasers for those 13+.
Our Optimist Sailing Program is open to sailors 8–15 years of age. Four levels of instruction are offered, ranging from basic sailing fundamentals through advanced racing technique. More advanced Opti sailors may have the opportunity to participate in local regattas.
Our Club 420 / Laser Program is offered to sailors 13 years and older, and others who have demonstrated proficiency in racing.
Mornings (9:15-12:15)
LEVEL 1
For first-time sailors and those with no prior (or with limited) experience sailing an Optimist. Learn the basic fundamentals of sailing, including technique, rigging, proper boat handling and maintenance.
LEVEL 2
For sailors with at least one full session of experience sailing an Optimist, and who have demonstrated readiness to sail an Optimist alone. Strengthen fundamental sailing skills, improve boat handling, and master the ability to rig an Optimist without assistance.
Afternoons (1:30-4:30)
LEVEL 3 - INTERMEDIATE SAILING & INTRODUCTION TO RACING
For intermediate and advanced sailors who have mastered the fundamentals and are interested developing advanced sailing techniques, including racing skills and strategies. Opportunity to participate in local regattas.
LEVEL 4 - ADVANCED OPTI SAILING & RACING TECHNIQUES
For secure sailors who want to hone their racing skills. Opportunities to participate in local JSA regattas. Potential to try out 420 sailing late in the season.
OLDER NOVICE OPTI SAILORS
A learn-to-sail program for older novice sailors with no prior (or with limited) experience sailing an Optimist. Must be at least 11 years old by the end of Session 2 to participate. Learn the basic fundamentals of sailing, including technique, rigging, proper boat handling and maintenance.