The Skiff Sailing Foundation

Overview

The Skiff Sailing Foundation is a 501(c)(3) nonprofit organization dedicated to promoting and supporting high-performance sailing. It operates as a publicly supported qualified amateur sports organization, focusing on enhancing the accessibility and popularity of the sport by providing equipment and funding to sailors with national and international goals[1][2].

Mission

The foundation's mission is to assist racing sailors, particularly those transitioning to high-performance boats, by offering them the necessary resources to succeed in their endeavors. It aims to increase participation in sailing and promote athlete development, contributing to the growth of the sport at the national and international levels[2][5].

Activities and Achievements

In recent years, the foundation has been involved in several major championships, achieving notable success in competitions such as the Pan American Games, where it secured a berth for the USA in the Nacra 17 at the Paris 2024 Olympic Games[2]. The foundation also participates in international training sessions, such as those held in Lanzarote, Spain, to enhance sailors' skills in challenging conditions[2].

Funding

The Skiff Sailing Foundation is entirely funded by contributions from the sailing community. Grants and donations support its programs, which include equipment provision and athlete development initiatives[3][4]. Notable grants have been received from organizations like the Jikes Foundation and the Community Foundation for Palm Beach and Martin Counties[4].

Leadership

Chad Freitas serves as the director of the Skiff Sailing Foundation. He has been instrumental in shaping the foundation's goals and activities, drawing from his own background in sailing, which began through junior sailing programs and continued through his college sailing career at UC Berkeley[3].

Sailing Programs and Impact

The foundation plays a significant role in supporting sailing programs that help train future Olympic athletes, America’s Cup racers, and World Champions. It also emphasizes the development of women in sailing, recognizing the sport's evolution towards requiring finesse over strength due to advancements in materials like carbon fiber hydrofoils[3].