There was a time in the USA when kids crewed for adults in one design classes, and this introduced the next generation to a lifetime in the sport. But today, with the organization of youth sailing, kids focus on age-based boats and events, and extra effort is needed to transition them into adult options.

For the Snipe Class, that person is Andrew Skibo, a longstanding Annapolis Yacht Club member, who has been instrumental in the AYC Junior Sailing Program launching an adjunct to its regular programs in Annapolis, MD.

The Snipe has had a popular local fleet that extends to regional, national, and international competition, and with greater tuning and boat preparation requirements, will provide a step up from the active youth fleets of Optimist Dinghy, 420, and Flying Junior.

At the 2025 Snipe Colonial Cup hosted by Severn Sailing Association in Annapolis, two new boats were provided to junior teams from AYC and SSA with new sails and equipment, plus there was coaching provided for all of the junior boats. This event was the culmination of many months of planning by the AYC Junior Sailing Staff, the leadership at SSA, and the generosity and vision of the Skibo initiative.

The AYC Snipes present an opportunity for older juniors to sail outside of structured classes and compete in regularly scheduled local and regional events. Transition to adult sailing is a strong goal of this program, with an overarching aim of creating lifelong sailors.

On August 15-16, SSA will host the 2025 Snipe Junior US National Championship as another opportunity for the next generation to learn about life beyond youth sailing.