MudRatz Racing
Join the Ratz Pack.
Three teams, ages 8 to 23. Pick the one that fits your sailor.
Kick off the Opti Season
Specifically designed for sailors ages 8 to 14 who are ready to take their racing to the next level.
The Specs
- Ideal Age8 to 14 years old.
- Ideal WeightSailors should be under 115 lbs to be effective in the boat.
- Boat RequirementYou must own a race-ready Opti or charter one through a local club.
Experience Needed
- At least one full season of Green Fleet racing.
- Best fit for sailors in the top half of their local Green Fleet.
- Motivated and ready to learn as a team.
Ready to Join the Pack?
Member dues support global travel and high-performance coaching opportunities.
Make sure to mention MudRatz at Zim Sailing or Team One Newport for your 10% gear discount.
Dominate the 420 Circuit
Designed for sailors ages 11 to 17 looking for high-performance double-handed racing.
Team Specs
- Ideal Age11 to 17 years old.
- Combined Weight420 teams should weigh between 220-290 lbs to be effective.
- Partner PolicySolo sailors are welcome. We will pair you up as best we can at the first practice.
Experience Needed
- Skippers: at least one season of ECSA racing.
- Or at least one year in the MudRatz Opti program.
- Crew: open to all who meet the weight requirements with a partner.
Ready to Launch?
420s are available for charter at Zim Sailing or local clubs, or sailors may bring their own.
Pro-Tip: a drysuit is strongly advised for cold-water dinghy sailing.
Welcome back to Offshore Sailing
The Offshore Team is built for sailors ages 14 to 23 who are ready for mature, independent big-boat racing.
The Boats & Where
- LocationStonington, CT, with overnight practices around Block Island and beyond.
- What you sailThe team keelboat fleet, including a J/105 and a Figaro 2.
- SchedulePractice days and season dates are set by the head coach each year. Email us for the current schedule.
Entry Criteria
- Must complete 5 full practices.
- Final evaluation by the head coach required.
- Maturity and independence are a must.
Ready for the Season?
Cost is $200 per season, plus a $30 uniform fee for new sailors.
Expect overnight practices around Block Island and beyond as we prepare for offshore racing.
Membership
Become a Member
Access world-class opportunities and support the future of youth sailing.
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Join the Pack
Start your annual subscription to unlock all team benefits and voting rights.
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Sign Up & Waiver
Complete the team registration and safety waiver via our secure online form.
Member Benefits
Team Programs
Access to an ever-growing list of global youth sailing opportunities.
Use of Team Boats
Sail high-performance vessels including the J/105, Melges 20s, Melges 24, and Etchells.
Ratz Supporting Ratz
Foster future sailors by being part of our 100% volunteer-run community.
US Sailing Discount
Save up to $30 on memberships with our US Sailing MVP Club discount.
BoatUS Discount
Use code GA8513Y for $15 dues and 10% off on-the-water towing.
Gear Discounts
10% off at Team One Newport, Zim Sailing, Intensity Sails and Landfall Navigation.
Ratz F.A.Q.
Everything you need to know before hitting the starting line.
What age & weight is right for my sailor?
Optis: ideal for ages 8-14. Common wisdom says Opti sailors should be under 115 lbs.
420s: ideal for ages 11-17. Teams should weigh between 220-290 lbs to be effective.
Sportboats: best for ages 14-16 to get started.
How much experience is required?
Optis: at least one full season of green fleet racing. You'll have more fun if you've reached the top 1/2 of your local fleet.
420s: skippers need one season of ECSA racing or a year in our Opti program. Crew are welcome if they meet weight requirements.
Offshore: we look for sailors between ages 14 and 23 who are mature and independent.
Do I need to own a boat?
Optis: yes. You can find race-ready boats used or charter from local clubs.
420s: available for charter at Zim Sailing or local clubs. Sometimes solo sailors look for partners who already own a boat.
Sportboats: we've got the boats ready to go, just bring your gear.
What about gear and drysuits?
Drysuits: strongly advised for cold-water dinghy sailing. While not strictly required, coaches may restrict participation without one if water temps are low.
Where to Buy: most of our partners offer a 10% discount if you mention you're with the MudRatz:
Can I join 420s without a partner?
Sure. Come to practice ready to sail. We will pair you up as best we can, though many teams arrive pre-partnered. We recommend coming early to the first practice to meet other solo sailors.
Got a different question?
Email our coaches directly at mudratzracing@gmail.com.
MudRatz Inc. · PO Box 293, Stonington CT 06378 · @ratzracing