The Emerald Coast Sailing Association (ECSA) is a non-profit association formed in 1992 when a group of Okaloosa County sailing fathers realized a need for an organization to foster local sailing. Several of the area’s top sailors sought a sponsor and training program to advance their skills. This would allow them to compete in local and regional regattas.
ECSA now provides assistance for area sailors competing at United States Sailing Association sanctioned regional events through Olympic and world championship events. ECSA also engages in a number of educational programs designed to attract new sailors, educate and train those already sailing, and promote safety for all in a “lifetime” sport. The association is guided by a Board of Trustees selected for their interest, skills, and contributions to the sailing world.
The primary source of funding is Summer Sailing Lessons for students age 8 through 18. We enroll 150 – 160 potential Olym6pic sailors in three, summer sessions in Opti’s, Sunfish, and 420’s depending on age and experience. In 2012 we added an adult session on Flying Scots. We encourage our graduates to enroll in the local high schools’ sailing program that ECSA coordinates and coaches for Fort Walton Beach, Niceville, and Choctawhatchee High School.