Seabrook, TX: Lakewood Yacht Club (LYC) will host the top youth sailors from around the country for the 2021 KO Sailing Optimist Team Trials on April 21 through 25, 2021.
At this premier event for Optimist sailors in the USA, young sailors will compete for prized positions on Team USA going to the Optimist World Championship, European Championship, and other highly competitive international spots.
This same event was canceled for 2020, but planning for 2021 combines the same high level of competition with COVID-19 safety protocols. "Lakewood is preparing to host a safe event for both competitors and volunteer organizers," says Race Chair and LYC Member Marie Wise. "It's an honor for Lakewood to host this regatta in which the stakes are high for so many youth sailors."
Galveston Bay will be the site of more than 200 Optimist sailors racing April 22-25; however, most of the competitors will arrive in Seabrook and Lakewood Yacht Club at least a week in advance to train.
The Optimist dinghy is one of the most popular youth sailboats in the world, and the sailors, who range in age from 10 to 15, learn high-level racing skills and the important, intangible life lessons that come from dedication to any sport.
"Lakewood's Optimist sailors are ready for four days of intense racing," says LYC Racing and Head Optimist Coach Bernat Galí Bou. "Sailing at this level requires mental training as well as endurance. We are ready for the challenge!"
Local hotels and attractions can expect 200 or more families in the area for the full week. Seabrook and the surrounding communities have much to offer for accommodations, dining, and diversions. Highlights for out-of-town guests include touring Space Center Houston, amusements at the Kemah Boardwalk, strolling the walking trails in Seabrook, touring Armand Bayou by pontoon boat, or visiting the San Jacinto Monument and Battleship Texas. Galveston is sure to be a likely destination as well.
