Comment by OldManAndTheCpp

I own (half of) a racing boat on the Great Lakes.

Buying a boat brings with it dreams of freedom, winning races, beautiful summer days.

The reality is that you need crew! Serious racers will refer to their boat as their “program”, and are always looking for careful, reliable crew.

I’d say look for a “learn to sail” program at whatever yacht club is nearest you, then see if they have a club racing scene. Most clubs have both.