Few sports offer the diversity that sailing does. From ocean to lake, offshore to onshore, every sailing location presents its own unique challenges for sailors. Sailing has strong participation numbers in non-coastal areas of the US, and a new organization in Chicago has some collaborative plans for the sport in the region.
The Chicago Area Sail Racing Association (CASRA) was recently formed to deliver a new style of racing around Chicago’s lakefront. With 18 miles of lakefront to play with, the group intends to launch a variety of events and regattas to boost participation numbers in the area’s boating community.
The Chicago Area Sail Racing Association (CASRA) was recently formed to deliver a new style of racing around Chicago’s lakefront. With 18 miles of lakefront to play with, the group intends to launch a variety of events and regattas to boost participation numbers in the area’s boating community.
So What Is CASRA About?
CASRA will coordinate with local yacht clubs, racers and yacht owners to collaboratively promote and develop yacht racing in Chicago. The key areas of focus are collaboration and growth, with less of a governing body stance. Promoting events and building up participation numbers are all part of CASRA’s directive. By working with yacht owners and racing crews, the group plans to lock down the 2017 race schedule while also involving all parties in shaping future events. They are also planning to boost the caliber of events in the Chicago area, though plans for this are yet to be revealed.
Who Is Associated with CASRA?
Currently five clubs are involved as the founding members of CASRA, though plans are in place to include all levels of participants, from racers and owners to non-CASRA clubs and organizations as well as local sailing governing bodies.
How Is CASRA Different from Other Organizations?
The most obvious point of difference about the association is that it is focused on Chicago. This is great for the region, as it’s a perfect location to build a strong sail racing program. The group plans to use innovation to decrease the complexity of participation and boost access in the sport. From youth programs with clubs to new racing events for the Chicago boating community, CASRA is committed to the long term.
