Tips from JO Event Organizers
Here are some tips & opinions from JO organizers, on miscellaneous event subjects, for you to consider:- Keep it simple, well organized; don’t take on too much.
- Pick a date preferably after schools are out and junior programs have started for the greatest participation.
- Email blasts to local clubs and sailors are very effective.
- E-liminate meetings and keep your committees up to date via email.
- Offering housing will greatly expand the effort needed; supply a list of places to stay, instead. (You can accommodate any real needs one-on-one. All are regional events so it’s unlikely sailors will be coming cross-country.)
- Charter boats also will multiply your workload.
- Include a T-shirt in the entry fee, for preregistrants. Late registrants get shirts if available (shirt is bonus for preregistering; same fee even if no shirt).
- Online registration is the name of the game; consider registration deadlines 1-2 weeks up front.
- Latecomers and walk-ins: Charge a steep late fee, if sailor hasn’t registered (it will cost you more, in caterer, paperwork, etc.); One event made several hundred dollars in $30-40 late fees; kids showing up really wanted to sail.
- Lots of races, clinics, fun... the basics of Junior Olympic events!
- Plan for impromptu mini-clinics, in case of a postponement (or no wind): Rules, RC role playing, mock protest hearings . . . . Involve visiting coaches.
- A social will make a big difference – a first-night casual supper, even an informal dance. Kids love an excuse just to hang out together.
- Post results on the web immediately, and let everyone know ahead that results will be posted online.