|
Getting your Trinity Audio player ready...
|
At first glance, the Coconut Grove Sailing Club (CGSC) is an unassuming sailing center tucked along Biscayne Bay. But on any given weekend, the waters just offshore come alive with bright sails – and even brighter smiles, as kids from the neighborhood and beyond learn to cruise, race, and build lifelong confidence through CGSC’s youth sailing program.
Building Character on Biscayne Bay
Founded in 1946 with a mission to promote sailing and water safety, CGSC’s youth program has grown into a local hub for community engagement and character-building. From six-year-olds learning boat terms and wind angles to making their first tack in an Optimist dinghy, to seasoned teens competing in international regattas, the program offers far more than just technical training, it creates a true sense of belonging.
“The way I best describe it,” says Joe Logan, Director of the Youth and Adult Sailing programs, “this is a place in our community where kids can learn to become their best selves. We’re helping them build resilience, teamwork, independence – important qualities that they’ll carry with them long after they’re out of the water.”
For some kids, that transformation is evident from the first day. “We’ve had children who showed up quiet and unsure of themselves,” Logan continued. “But by the end of a season, they’re leading drills, rigging boats, and teaching others what they’ve learned. It’s an absolute joy to watch.”
That spirit of independence is balanced by a strong sense of camaraderie. According to Lauren Simpson, the club’s General Manager, CGSC’s inclusive culture emphasizes mentorship and team building. “We make our programs accessible to everyone,” she says. “That means fundraising, scholarships, and making sure anyone who wants to sail has a shot at it.”
Rising Stars Among the Ranks
While many parents initially introduce their kids to sailing for the physical activity and ocean air, they soon realize it has a much deeper impact. “Sailing teaches responsibility in a way few sports can,” said Carlo Mayor whose daughters are both rising stars in their own right. “A young sailor is in charge of a boat by themselves, they’re making real decisions out there, and making them real fast. And it brings out maturity in the best way.”
CGSC’s programs have clearly impacted countless young people in the community, but there are a few recent standout examples that truly highlight the success of these initiatives.
Daniela and Gianna Mayor
With no sailing background whatsoever, the Mayor family never anticipated that their daughters, Daniela, age 13, and Gianna, age 10, would one day compete on the world stage. Starting with CGSC Summer Camp, what began as a fun summer activity quickly evolved into a lifelong passion.
“The CGSC coaches are so good that it allowed our kids to move quickly through the ranks, from beginner lessons to the competitive Red/White/Blue racing team – and now sailing is their focus,” says their mother, Kathy.
Daniela went on to win the 2023 Girls Optimist National Championship, leading to international competitions like the Optimist World Championship in Argentina and the Asian & Oceanian Championship in Hong Kong.
“Their sailing journey began right here at the Summer Camp, and with the support of a close-knit CGSC sailing community, it continues to take Daniela and Gianna to new heights, both on the water and in life,” said their father, Carlo.
Paloma Barrera-Davila
Paloma Barrera-Davila is a 15-year-old CGSC sailor who recently made waves in the U.S. Youth Sailing Championship circuit. A fierce competitor with a calm demeanor, Barrera has been sailing with CGSC since age six and now serves as both an inspiration and mentor to the younger sailors.
“I’ve learned so much, not just about sailing, but about who I am,” she said. “Being on the water forces you to be present. You learn how to adapt and how to trust your instincts. Plus, the community we have here is just amazing!”
In the past few years, Barrera has been a member of the U.S. Junior National Team competing in events in South America, Europe, throughout all of North America, the Caribbean, and elsewhere around the world.
This year was a landmark period for Barrera as she represented the CGSC and the United States at the Optiorange Valencia, Optimist International Regatta in February. Her sixth place finish against 541 other sailors made her a top U.S. contender in this coed regatta.
“I also want younger sailors to know that it’s okay to mess up and ask questions,” she said. “I was there once too. It’s all part of the journey.”
Sailing for All
That message resonates throughout the club. For every young sailor eyeing the podium, there’s another simply gaining confidence and learning to love the sea.
“We measure success in different ways,” said Logan. “Yes, we’re proud of the kids who go to nationals, but we’re just as proud of the ones who walk into sailing camp for the very first time, learn to overcome fear and sail solo for the first time.”
CGSC programs run year-round and appeal to kids of all ages, nationalities, and backgrounds. Designed to meet kids where they are, the sailing program offers many different levels from learn to sail, to racing. Racing programs typically have a developmental and performance function that focuses on fundamentals and moves up to more advanced techniques depending on the sailors skill levels.
And now that the academic year is ending, it’s important to note CGSC conducts a popular summer camp that introduces hundreds of local students to the sport each year (see details below). This program offers a safe and exciting way to learn or improve their skills on the water – with an emphasis on fun while building confidence and essential boat handling skills in a supportive environment.
Supporting the CGSC Mission
As the programs expand, so do the opportunities for the community along with the need for financial support. “All sports can be expensive and we look for ways to reduce that expense for various members of our community,” said Simpson. “After all, the CGSC mission is to promote the sport of sailing and the more people we can reach and make the sport accessible, the more interest youth and families will take in sailing both as a sport and a positive life-shaping activity.”
“If we can get more eyes on what these kids are doing, if the community rallies around them, then we’ve done our job,” said Simpson. “This is a place where kids grow, in every sense of the word.”
CGSC Summer Sailing Camp
Beyond year-round programs and weekend sailing adventures, the club’s six-week Summer Sailing Camp is a gateway for aspiring young sailors to dive headfirst into the maritime world. Camp runs from June 9 to August 8, (M-F, 9 a.m. to 4 p.m.), offering hands-on instruction, teamwork, and time on the water that helps even the most hesitant beginners gain confidence and learn new skills. Whether they’re learning to rig a boat, tie a bowline, or navigate Biscayne Bay, campers come away with more than just sailing skills: they gain life skills, life-long friends, and love for the ocean.
“If your child is ready to trade screen time for a cool sea breeze – and learn from the best – now’s the time,” adds Simpson. “Spots fill up fast, so don’t miss the boat!” Visit https://cgscic.org/summercamp/ to learn more and register for the upcoming summer camp.
ABOUT THE COCONUT GROVE SAILING CLUB
The Coconut Grove Sailing Club has been a cornerstone of Miami’s sailing community since 1946. Founded by local residents with a shared passion for sailing, CGSC offers comprehensive sailing education, from youth programs to adult classes. The club fosters a spirit of cooperation and community service, providing a safe, welcoming environment for sailors of all levels. CGSC continues to lead in education, racing, and community engagement, serving as a hub for Biscayne Bay’s sailing culture.
The CGSC is Located at 2990 South Bayshore Drive, Miami, FL 33133. For more information, visit www.cgsc.org or email icdirector@cgsc.org.
