RLymYC Optimist Fleet
The Optimist dinghy is renowned worldwide, with 300,000 children in 120 countries sailing these boats. It boasts a competitive national and international racing circuit and is a supported junior class by RYA. Affectionately known as 'Oppies' or 'Optis,' these dinghies are credited with nurturing many sailors' lifelong passion for sailing and are famously referred to as the 'medal factory,' as 85% of sailors at the 2016 Olympics began in Oppies.
In Lymington, over 60 active Oppie sailors participate in approximately 75 training or racing activities annually. Sailors typically start in the Regatta Fleet at 8 years old, progressing to the Main Fleet as their skills develop. The club has produced several British National and Junior National Champions. The success of the Royal Lymington Optimist Fleet is attributed to its location, offering sheltered sailing on the river, expansive water at Oxey Lake, and challenging conditions in the Western Solent.