By Marie Rogers, from the SCYA Inclusive Boating Committee
It goes without saying that youth sailing programs offer huge benefits. They help young people build confidence, independence, and teamwork through navigating wind and water, while also boosting STEM skills (physics, math) and environmental awareness, providing a great screen-free activity that develops responsibility, resilience, and lifelong social connections. At the same time, observers are reexamining junior sailing programs that can cause intense competitive pressure leading to burnout, high costs, safety issues, and a focus on racing that alienates non-competitive kids. Because programs typically lack ethnic diversity, bullying based on race currently exists, with program directors often not having tools to address the problem. The affected families are left to decide if the benefits outweigh the drawbacks of staying in these programs.
I interviewed Zarrin Harvey for this story because I have been searching for kids who come from outside the sailing community and whose families do not live near the water. He was fortunate to have been encouraged by his uncle to join the sailing summer camp offered by Bahia Corinthian Yacht Club. He fell in love with the sport, so much so that he wanted to continue in the regular program. In time, his family moved from Riverside to Newport Beach where he was able to join the BCYC team. It is important to add that his mother, Artesha, was protective of her son. They weren’t a sailing family, and it was necessary to learn how to navigate in this new world of yacht club life. She attended all practices and events. She went on the road with the team when they traveled. She was there for all the team members and cheered for them enthusiastically. Things changed when Zarrin started to excel. He started winning races and the ugly came out. Competing teams hurled racial slurs. Artesha was hassled by the parents of other teams, suggesting that it was not fair Zarrin was winning just because he was black. The insults were unprovoked and hurtful. What kept them going was the support that they got from Zarrin’s coaches and home club.
Zarrin, a senior at Corona Del Mar High School and a member of their sailing team, stays focused on his training and his studies. He holds Max Mayol, Head Sailing Coach, in the highest regard. Mayol has coached him from Sabots to FJs. Zarrin told stories of BCYC Sailing Director Cameron Maclaren, who was incredibly supportive and fun. After practice, he made kids dance for candy and usually had his sweet dog, Nala, nearby. Finally, he credits Mark Gaudio, Naples Sabot Champion, for coaching and encouraging him. According to Zarrin, Gaudio is especially amazing at inspiring young kids. These experiences with his coaches have motivated Zarrin to coach the up-and-coming young sailors at BCYC. His kind disposition and celebrity status have kids clamoring for his attention.
Some of Zarrin’s highlights are as follows:
- Denny Mason Memorial Trophy: Most Enthusiastic Junior Sailor, 2021 and 2022
- John Pickney Perpetual: Most Outstanding Racing Record Set for a Junior Sailor, 2022 and 2023
- Balboa Bay Fleet Championship Perpetual, 2022-2023
Zarrin’s parents are now members of BCYC. Theirs is a story of patience and mutual respect. Artesha volunteered for more than supporting the team. She helped with major club events, and in time was elected to serve on the Board of Directors. She has major respect for the BCYC leadership and staff. She models the steps they took to make her feel welcome as she now does the same for families new to yacht club life.
Next steps for Artesha? Support Zarrin in his college journey…and learn to sail herself!