Ten Years of Warrior Sailing at AYC: Building Confidence, Connection and Community
With support from the AYC Foundation, Warrior Sailing welcomed 22 wounded, ill and injured veterans and active-duty service members to the Annapolis Yacht Club Sailing Center for its Basic Training Camp, held October 5–7, 2026.
This year marked the 10th time Annapolis Yacht Club has hosted the camp, continuing a partnership that introduces military participants to sailing and welcomes them into a supportive community on the water.
Representing the Army, Navy, Marine Corps, Air Force and Coast Guard, participants arrived with a wide range of backgrounds and abilities. Most had never sailed or had only experienced sailing a few times as passengers.
Over three days, classroom instruction was paired with hands-on training aboard Sonars. Working in small teams with professional coaches, participants learned the fundamentals of sailing and sailboat racing. Equipment and instruction were adapted to individual needs, helping every sailor participate fully. The camp concluded with a poker-run-style race that allowed participants to apply their new skills while communicating and working together on the water.
For many, the experience represented far more than an opportunity to learn a new sport. Participants came hoping to connect with fellow veterans, rebuild confidence and discover an activity they could continue in their own communities. Some wanted to sail with family and friends, while others hoped to pursue additional training or eventually help introduce fellow veterans to sailing.
Basic Training Camp can be the beginning of a much longer journey. After learning the fundamentals, Warrior Sailing participants may pursue certifications, attend clinics, study boat systems and maintenance, or advance into performance and race training.
Every member of the Warrior Sailing race team began at a Basic Training Camp, including some who first learned to sail at a camp hosted by AYC. After years of developing their skills, the team earned a podium finish at the 2026 Chicago to Mackinac Race—a bucket-list regatta for many sailors. Their achievement illustrates what can grow from a first opportunity to step aboard a boat.
Post-camp feedback reflected the program’s immediate impact as well. Nearly every survey respondent rated the experience “Exceptional,” praising the patient coaching, hands-on instruction and camaraderie.
“I felt like I got some of my confidence back,” shared Brian Etchison. “I will be continuing to sail for the rest of my life.”
Tammy Barlet said she left the camp with “greater confidence, new friendships, and a renewed excitement for what’s ahead.”
Professional coaching, equipment and lunches were provided at no cost to participants, and lodging was covered for eligible attendees traveling from outside the area. Removing these barriers made it possible for service members from across the country to learn, connect and experience the freedom of sailing.
The AYC Foundation is proud to have sponsored this year’s camp and grateful to Annapolis Yacht Club for its continued hospitality. Together with Warrior Sailing, we helped 22 veterans and active-duty service members discover new skills, lasting connections and a welcoming place within the sailing community.
Whether it leads to recreational sailing, lifelong friendships, mentoring others or a podium finish, there is no limit to where the journey may go.
Warrior Sailing returns October 4–6, 2027. We look forward to welcoming the next group of sailors to Annapolis!
To Learn More and Support Warrior Sailing : www.warriorsailing.org
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