Thank you for your interest in Race Committee volunteer opportunities at SBYC.  We want you to be well prepared so that you can enjoy your time on the water.  This list will give you a good idea of what to expect while running races at SBYC or in the channel.

Contact:  Dana Jones, the club’s Race Director, is available to answer any racing related questions at 965 8112 x14.  The regatta chairperson for each event is listed on our Race Committees page.  Chairpersons can be contacted through the club roster.

When and Where to Arrive:  If possible please contact the race chairperson or the club for the proper arrival time.  Unless otherwise directed, please meet at the Race Office and check in with the chairperson.  A good rule of thumb is to arrive before the skippers’ meeting¸ which is listed on regatta flyers and Sailing Instructions.  Remember that the arrival time for a regatta run on the water is usually about an hour earlier than for one run from the deck.  For all races, please be sure to arrive on time. 

What to Bring:  Although the weather in Santa Barbara is generally mild some standard clothing items are necessary.  Remember that you need to be prepared for the worst weather at any regatta.  The club recommends that you bring a small bag with warm clothes and rain/spray gear regardless of the weather.  For regattas run on the water, please also bring good boat shoes.  Sun protection is essential as well.  Hats, sunglasses and sunscreen are recommended.   For children, please provide an appropriately sized PFD at all times on the water.

Mark-set Boats: Mark-set boats can be colder and may require extra clothes for after racing.  Small boat crews are provided with PFD’s, but if you wish to bring your own please do.   

Lunch: The club will provide lunch for all volunteers during regattas on the water.  This includes water and sodas.  Volunteers with special dietary needs may want to provide their own lunch.  Regattas run at the club do not provide food or beverages. 

Duties:  There are several jobs involving signaling of race participants that can be done by a novice.  You will not need experience to participate on the race committee.  Volunteers with more experience are helpful as well, especially for on the water regattas.  Mark-set crews should be competent in small power boats and should be able to lift mark anchors up to 25 lbs. into the boats.