No Tears Regatta 2026 Re-Cap!
Every sailing career has a first regatta. The No Tears Regatta is exactly what it sounds like: an event for the most inexperienced sailors in the region, where the scorecard is an afterthought and fun is the whole point. Pre-green and green fleet sailors got around the race course together, coaches and parents in boats right alongside them! Because whatever it takes to make that first race a little less scary — that’s what you do.
A handful of us began our sailing journey in an Opti — the tummy aches when the breeze picks up at your first regatta (which somehow disappear the moment the fun starts), the lifelong friendships, the summers on your home lake, getting dropped off at sailing camp. There’s no sport quite like it!
We all know that your first regatta is intimidating. The breeze builds, you’ve gone around the course maybe once, and the nerves are real. But that’s exactly why events like this exist — a community that makes sailing fun and an environment where nerves are totally okay!
For our No Tears sailors, the breeze slowly built to around 15 knots. Green fleet got 4 races off and the No Tears fleet completed one windy race. For most, this was a huge accomplishment and confidence boost in sailing in wind.
Trophies at the No Tears Regatta have a tradition of being decidedly un-trophy-like. Past years have seen painted rocks, ceramic candy jars, gumball machines, and — famously — live goldfish. This year, sailors went home with Helly Hansen bags, medals, and trophies. Something to hold on to as they grow up in the sport!
Photos
We made sure to get a photo of every sailor. Find yours in the gallery below — download, print, and stick on the fridge!
Missed Us There?
