Ya Gotta Regatta (YGR) is more than just a day on the water - it's a vibrant celebration where our community comes together to celebrate a season of impact - and help power what comes next. From racers and cruisers to adaptive sailors, Young Mariners, camp families, instructors, and volunteers, YGR showcases the people and programs that make the Downtown Sailing Center so special.

This year's event holds special meaning as we honor the memory of George "Kirk" Culbertson, the Downtown Sailing Center's first Executive Director, creator of the inaugural Ya Gotta Regatta, and a visionary leader whose passion for access, inclusion, and community helped shape the DSC into what it is today. Many of the programs, traditions, and values that define our organization can be traced back to Kirk's belief that sailing should be available to everyone.

As we gather on the water this year, we celebrate not only a remarkable season, but also the legacy of those who built this community and the future we are creating together.

Everyone belongs. Everyone is welcome.
Come sail with us.  Celebrate with us.  Support the programs that make it all possible.

This year's regatta features 2 adaptive fleets: Hansa 303W and Sonar 23. Hansa sailors must have previous racing experience in order to participate.  A skipper and/or crew can be provided for Sonar racers.  Registration is free for all adaptive racers.

The J/22 one-design fleet will race with spinnakers.  Teams will be randomly assigned one of the DSC's J/22s.  The registration fee is $95 per team and teams must also create and online fundraising team with a suggested goal of $100/ft or $2200 for each J/22.

The pursuit race is open to all sailboats. Boats without a valid PHRF of the Chesapeake certificate shall be assigned a PHRF rating at the discretion of the DSC. Registration fee is $95 per boat and the suggested fundraising goal is $100/ft.

Whether you can pitch in for a full day, or only a couple of hours, there are plenty of opportunities to volunteer both on and off the water. No experience is necessary for many roles and we appreciate any help you can give to help make YGR 26 a success!

Every gift - large or small - helps keep sailing open to everyone.

Your support funds youth scholarships, adaptive sailing, workforce development, community programs, and critical waterfront improvements.

You don't have to race to make a difference.

Create or join a fundraising team, rally your community, and help us reach our goal. Every dollar raised helps build confidence, break barriers, and create opportunity.

Align your business an inspiring event.

From event recognition to custom Legacy Fund partnerships, sponsorships showcase your commitment to community while supporting inclusive sailing.

A gift of appreciated stock or other securities can make a lasting impact while offering potential tax advantages.

To learn more about gifting stock, please contact Sharon Lacy, Executive Director.