The Hoofer Sailing Club, established in 1939, is a collection of students and community members working to promote sailing at the University of Wisconsin-Madison by providing the organization, equipment, infrastructure, instruction, and financing necessary to encourage recreational and competitive sailing.
Membership includes unlimited lessons and boat usage. Our fleet, one of the largest in the nation, includes dinghies, keelboats, windsurfing and even winter kiting. We encourage all our members to volunteer, to become instructors and to be involved in club leadership.
By doing as much of the work ourselves, we can keep our membership dues as low as possible. Not only does our structure keep our costs low, but it also has tremendous social potential. When you teach others to sail or get involved in our periodic work parties and social events, you meet new people and create friendships. You also get a chance to learn a great deal about boat operations and maintenance-- a great thing if you dream of owning a boat someday.
Our club is open to any level of sailing experience from beginners just wanting to take a few lessons and learn the basics of sailing, to our intercollegiate sailing team that often ranks in the top 20 in the nation.
See you on the lake....
News
No Sailing Experience Required!
This year's Commodore's Cup is a 6-day activity taking place during the last full week of August and culminates with a formal ball at the end. This event celebrates both the sailing and social aspects of the club and stems from delightfully wacky traditions formed during the typical doldrums due to lack of wind we experience in July.
A special winter seminar is being held on March 6th at 6:30 in the festival room. Members and racers from the MYC will be there for a meet-and-greet.
Agenda:
- Why race sailboats
- History of E Scows
- Why race and E Scow – A Love Letter
- Spinnaker work
- Mendota Yacht Club
- Racing terms and what to expect.
- Tips for crew
- How to get involved
Nominations for Commodore, Vice-Commodore, or Rear Commodore will open February 21st and close the 27th. Be sure to check the Elections page for updates and anything else you might need to know
Applications for Sailing Instructors for the 2024 season are now opoen! Check out the details on the Teach Sailing page for info.
Thank you everyone for your help lifting out boats for this year! We only have a few boats left to get out so be sure to check the lessons page for any volunteer opportunities.
Upcoming Events
Minnesota Hockey Game
The Wisconsin Hoofers are attending a Wisconsin Men's Hockey Game vs. Minnesota! This is a Hoofer-wide social that is open to members of any Hoofer club while tickets are available.
Sewing Machine Intro — Craft a Burgee!
Get started on your way to repairing sails and sewing canvaswork—such as sail covers, boat covers, sheet bags, etc.—by learning about sewing machines, and crafting your own Hoofer Sailing Club burgee! This 2-session class will (tentatively) consist of:
Session 1: Learn about the mechanisms that make a modern, lockstitch sewing machine work; how to wind a bobbin; how to thread the machine; the importance of thread tension; types of needles and presser feet; straight and zig-zag stitches. Practice sewing seams and hems.
Session 2: Apply your knowledge from session 1 to craft a burgee: Hem the base fabric; apply decorative stitches to attach the red fabric for the 'W', white fabric for the star; and trim them to shape. Then, apply flag tape along the fly (edge next to the flag pole), and install brass grommets. The result is a real burgee that you can take home to hang on your wall, or fly on your boat.
The goal of this class is to start training a group of club members who will have the skill to use an industrial sewing machine to take on a list of projects to make the club's boats better: sail repairs, new main sail covers, repair or replace covers for the scow fleet, or recycle old sails into useful items, like tote bags.
Outdoor Explorer Series: Backpack Like a Pro
Join Outdoor UW for another informative course in the Outdoor Explorer Series (OES). Learn and practice a new skill that will make you more comfortable and excited for your next adventure!
Backpack Like a Pro
Have you ever been interested in learning about what backpacking is all about? Have you ever wondered why is it popular, how do people get into it, where do they go, what do they need, is it possible to backpack and still be comfortable out there? Come to this class and get these questions answered so you can get ready for your first backpacking trip of the season.
Upon completion of this class, participants will:
- Learn about what backpacking is and why it is a popular outdoor activity
- Learn about the gear and supplies needed to backpack effectively and comfortably while also creatively thinking of substitutions they have that can be used in place of high-end/expensive gear.
- Learn how to effectively pack a backpack
- Learn about local areas that will be good spots for your first backpacking trip and what time of year is the best to visit these location
- Get hands on practice with packing a backpack
--- Class is located in the Mendota Lodge on the water lever of Memorial Union (along the lakefront and across from the Outdoor UW office) ----
*** If you are a person with a disability needing reasonable accommodation for this course, please contact our Dan Dunne, ddunne@wisc.edu ***
Racing Rules of Sailing - New Rules (2025 - 2028) A - Part 1
The new set of Racing Rules will go into effect January 1, 2025! Come join us for an overview on the changes to the Racing Rules. This will be a four part series as follows:
November 18: New Rules A (This event)
November 25: New Rules B (Sign up here: https://lessons.hoofersailing.org/event/111997)
December 2: Brain Teasers! (Sign up here: https://lessons.hoofersailing.org/event/111998)
December 9: Questions & Answers (Sign up here: https://lessons.hoofersailing.org/event/111999)
This is Part 1, New Rules A.
LOCATION: UNION SOUTH - Please check TITU for the room.
Friendsgiving at the Union!
Come join us for a traditional Thanksgiving Meal with vegetarian, vegan and gluten free options. Come with a friend or make a new acquaintance at the Wisconsin Union’s holiday event. UW–Madison students like you will feast on favorites like sliced turkey, butternut squash lasagna, sage stuffing, mashed potatoes and gravy, and more! All topped off with pecan and pumpkin pie. Expect lively conversation and fun activities including making cards for UW–Madison students staying in town for the Thanksgiving holiday
Date: November 19, 2024
Time: 5:00-6:30 pm (dinner starts promptly at 5:00 pm)
Location: Tripp Commons, Memorial Union (2nd floor)
Cancellation and Refund Information
The deadline to register and pay is November 11th, 2024 at 4 pm. No refunds after November 11th.
(New Class) Outdoor Explorer Series: Leading Through Interpersonal Obstacles in the Outdoors
Join Outdoor UW for another informative course in the Outdoor Explorer Series (OES). Learn and practice a new skill that will make you more comfortable and excited for your next adventure!
OUTDOOR EXPLORER SERIES: Leading Through Conflict in the Outdoors
Upon completion of this class, a participant will:
- Learn about the interpersonal gap and best practices for actively listening to others
- Learn about the types of conflict
- Learn about VOeMP framework that can be used to facilitate a discussion between two conflicting parties.
- Gain practice using a conflict resolution framework to make strides toward productive resolutions.
--- Class is located in the Mendota Lodge on the water level of Memorial Union (along the lakefront and across from the Outdoor UW office) ----
*** If you are a person with a disability needing reasonable accommodation for this course, please contact our Dan Dunne, ddunne@wisc.edu ***
Outdoor Explorer Series: Must Know Knots
Join Outdoor UW for another informative course in the Outdoor Explorer Series (OES). Learn and practice a new skill that will make you more comfortable and excited for your next adventure!
OUTDOOR EXPLORER SERIES: Must Know Knots
Have you ever been asked to tie something up and just stared at the string in your hands for far to long? FEAR KNOT!
Dont let this happen to you again, by joining our class and learn all about the best ways to remember how to tie various knots that are essential to recreating in the outdoors. We will practice and coach you through the most used knots and make sure you have got them figured out before you leave. Become a knot pro and join us for the Outdoor Explorer Series: Must Know Knots!
Upon completion of this class, participants will:
-
Describing terminology for knot tying/rope management
-
Discuss why knot tying is an important skill to have as a person who enjoys the outdoors
-
Most common knots you should know: (Video, In person walk through, practice, example of how to use this knot in the outdoors)
-
Next steps to becoming a Knot tying professional
--- Class is located in the Mendota Lodge on the water lever of Memorial Union (along the lakefront and across from the Outdoor UW office) ----
*** If you are a person with a disability needing reasonable accommodation for this course, please contact our Dan Dunne, ddunne@wisc.edu ***
(New Class) Outdoor Explorer Series: Leading through Fun & Games
Join Outdoor UW for another informative course in the Outdoor Explorer Series (OES). Learn and practice a new skill that will make you more comfortable and excited for your next adventure!
OUTDOOR EXPLORER SERIES: Leading through Fun & Games
Upon completion of this class, participants will:
- Understand the role of stories in education and leadership
- Understand the role of games in education and building community
- Learn a variety of games that can be used to build group cohesion
- Learn situation specific games to fill different roles
--- Class is located in the Mendota Lodge on the water level of Memorial Union (along the lakefront and across from the Outdoor UW office) ----
*** If you are a person with a disability needing reasonable accommodation for this course, please contact our Dan Dunne, ddunne@wisc.edu ***
NOLS Wilderness Medicine - Hybrid Wilderness First Responder 5-day Course (HWFR) - 22399
Registration for this Hybrid WFR course is managed by NOLS.
Once you register you will be given information about how to access the required pre-course online modules that will need to be completed before the course begins.
NOLS enrollment link > 22399 HWFR January 13th-17th, 2025
* Several spots on this course will be reserved for Hoofer members. These spots will be released to the general public 1 month before the course start date *
* Please note that Hoofer members enrolling in this course will have to pay the full tuition price on the NOLS website and will then be refunded the price difference the course has been completed *
Description: The Hybrid Wilderness First Responder (HWFR) course is a 5-day long 80-hour course taught by NOLS Wilderness Medicine. The HWFR course is designed to provide you with the tools to make critical medical and evacuation decisions in remote locations. Classroom lectures and demonstrations are combined with realistic scenarios where mock patients will challenge you to integrate your learning. Learning takes place both in the classroom and in outdoor settings regardless of weather conditions. Come prepared for wet, muddy, cold, or hot environments. Prerequisites: No previous first aid training is required. You must be 16 years old to attend this course. Certification: Participants are required to pass both written and practical examinations to obtain WFR and CPR certification. Successful course completion earns you a WMI Adult & Child CPR certification and a WMI Wilderness First Responder certification. EMTs will earn a Wilderness EMT certification. All certifications are current for two years.
Should I take the WFR or WFA? The WFA is a two-day course that primarily focuses on the basics of how to respond to an emergency situation in a remote area. This is perfect for people who are on remote day hikes or shorter trips with friends. This class really focuses on the Patient Assessment System and how to start making decisions on patient care. The WFR (Or Hybrid WFR) is an industry standard for outdoor professionals with outdoor schools and guide companies. If you are leading a group in remote areas, this more advanced WFR training can provide you with more in-depth knowledge and practice dealing with a variety of first aid situations. https://www.nols.edu/en/about/wilderness-medicine/
Location: Primary classroom will be held at Memorial Union on 800 Langdon Street in Madison. We are not able to offer housing or camping for this course. There are hotels and hostels available nearby. Food is not provided but is available for purchase in the building and at nearby locations to Memorial Union. There is a refrigerator and microwave to chill and warm food. https://info.wisc.edu/plan-your-visit/
Hoofer Club Leader Scholarship/Grant: If you are a current Hoofer club member and are hoping to take on more leadership within your club you may qualify for a scholarship/grant to offset the cost of this course. Please submit your application as soon as possible by applying through the links on hooferleaders.org. If you are awarded the scholarship/grant you will receive a follow-up email with directions on how to register for the course using a discount code.
NOLS Wilderness Medicine - Hybrid Wilderness First Responder Recertification 2-day Course (Hybrid WFR-Recert) - 22400
Registration for this Hybrid WFR Re-Certification course is managed by NOLS.
Once you register you will be given information about how to access the required pre-course online modules that will need to be completed before the course begins.
NOLS enrollment link > 22400 HWRR January 19th-20th, 2025
* Several spots on this course will be reserved for Hoofer members. These spots will be released to the general public 1 month before the course start date *
* Please note that Hoofer members enrolling in this course will have to pay the full tuition price on the NOLS website and will then be refunded the price difference the course has been completed *
Description: The Hybrid Wilderness First Responder Recertification (Hybrid WFR-Recert) course is a 2-day 24-hour course taught by NOLS Wilderness Medicine specifically to recertify participants who are currently holding a Wilderness First Responder Certification. The WFR-Recert course is designed to refresh your skills and knowledge in making critical medical and evacuation decisions in remote locations. Classroom lectures and demonstrations are combined with realistic scenarios where mock patients will challenge you to integrate your learning. Learning takes place both in the classroom and in outdoor settings regardless of weather conditions. Come prepared for wet, muddy, cold, or hot environments.
Prerequisites: You must be currently holding a Wilderness First Responder Certification or be in your 1-year grace period (between certification courses). You must be 16 years old to attend this course.
Certification: Participants are required to pass both written and practical examinations to obtain WFR and CPR certification. Successful course completion earns you a WMI Adult & Child CPR certification and a WMI Wilderness First Responder certification. EMTs will earn a Wilderness EMT certification. All certifications are current for two years.
Location: Primary classroom will be held at Memorial Union on 800 Langdon Street in Madison. We are not able to offer housing or camping for this course. There are hotels and hostels available nearby. Food is not provided but is available for purchase in the building and at nearby locations to Memorial Union. There is a refrigerator and microwave to chill and warm food. https://info.wisc.edu/plan-your-visit/
Hoofer Club Leader Scholarship/Grant: If you are a current Hoofer club member and are hoping to take on more leadership within your club you may qualify for a scholarship/grant to offset the cost of this course. Please submit your application as soon as possible by applying through the links on hooferleaders.org. If you are awarded the scholarship/grant you will receive a follow-up email with directions on how to register for the course using a discount code.
NOLS Wilderness Medicine - Hybrid Wilderness First Responder Recertification 2-day Course (Hybrid WFR-Recert) - 22401
Registration for this Hybrid WFR Re-Certification course is managed by NOLS.
Once you register you will be given information about how to access the required pre-course online modules that will need to be completed before the course begins.
NOLS enrollment link > 22401 HWRR March 15th-16th, 2025
* Several spots on this course will be reserved for Hoofer members. These spots will be released to the general public 1 month before the course start date *
* Please note that Hoofer members enrolling in this course will have to pay the full tuition price on the NOLS website and will then be refunded the price difference the course has been completed *
Description: The Hybrid Wilderness First Responder Recertification (WFR-Recert) course is a 2-day 24-hour course taught by NOLS Wilderness Medicine specifically to recertify participants who are currently holding a Wilderness First Responder Certification. The WFR-Recert course is designed to refresh your skills and knowledge in making critical medical and evacuation decisions in remote locations. Classroom lectures and demonstrations are combined with realistic scenarios where mock patients will challenge you to integrate your learning. Learning takes place both in the classroom and in outdoor settings regardless of weather conditions. Come prepared for wet, muddy, cold, or hot environments.
Prerequisites: You must be currently holding a Wilderness First Responder Certification or be in your 1-year grace period (between certification courses). You must be 16 years old to attend this course.
Certification: Participants are required to pass both written and practical examinations to obtain WFR and CPR certification. Successful course completion earns you a WMI Adult & Child CPR certification and a WMI Wilderness First Responder certification. EMTs will earn a Wilderness EMT certification. All certifications are current for two years.
Location: Primary classroom will be held at Memorial Union on 800 Langdon Street in Madison. We are not able to offer housing or camping for this course. There are hotels and hostels available nearby. Food is not provided but is available for purchase in the building and at nearby locations to Memorial Union. There is a refrigerator and microwave to chill and warm food. https://info.wisc.edu/plan-your-visit/
Hoofer Club Leader Scholarship/Grant: If you are a current Hoofer club member and are hoping to take on more leadership within your club you may qualify for a scholarship/grant to offset the cost of this course. Please submit your application as soon as possible by applying through the links on hooferleaders.org. If you are awarded the scholarship/grant you will receive a follow-up email with directions on how to register for the course using a discount code.
Trailer Training #3
If you anticipate using a FLEET/DOA VEHICLE to tow a Hoofer-owned trailer at any point this fall or winter, then attend this class to get your trailer towing certification! This would include towing a sailboat for lift-out, towing the horse trailer, towing the alpine ski trailer, or possibly towing the outing club canoe trailer. Please note that if someone cannot make this class, other trailer trainings will be offered in the future. Outdoor UW plans on running two trainings each semester. FLEET AUTHORIZATION WITH WISCONSIN HOOFERS IS REQUIRED. If you are fleet authorized with another UW department, you must submit paperwork with our office as well to become fleet authorized with Hoofers. There is no cost for the class. We will meet before the driving demonstration to get started and review the basics. After a short presentation, we will be leaving our meeting location to perform the hands-on portion of the training—dress for being outside.
Previous experience driving a trailer is not required for this training, however, it is helpful as the in-person section doesn't provide much time to practice but instead is mostly meant to demonstrate skills and ability to drive a vehicle with a trailer.
If there are questions please reach out to Nathan (headofinstruction@hoofersailing.org).
NOLS Wilderness Medicine - Wilderness First Aid 2-day Course (WFA) - 22398
Description: The Wilderness First Responder (WFA) is a 16-hour certification course that will help you prepare for unexpected medical emergencies in wilderness settings. This fast-paced, hands-on training is designed to meet the needs of trip leaders, camp staff, outdoor enthusiasts, and individuals working in remote locations. It will introduce you to caring for people who become ill or injured far from definitive medical care.Classroom lectures and demonstrations are combined with realistic scenarios where mock patients will challenge you to integrate your learning. At the end of the course, you’ll have the knowledge, skills, and ability to make sound decisions in emergency situations. You will also leave the course with a certification that is valid for two years from the date of the course. The course is hosted by OutdoorUW and taught by seasoned NOLS instructors in a two-day format, from 8:00 AM-5:00 PM. Learning takes place both in the classroom and in outdoor settings regardless of weather conditions, so come prepared for wet, muddy, cold, or hot environments. To learn more about the curriculum please visit: https://www.nols.edu/en/wilderness-medicine/courses/
Should I take the WFA or the WFR? The WFA is a two-day course that primarily focuses on the basics of how to respond to an emergency situation in a remote area. This is perfect for people who are on remote day hikes or shorter trips with friends. This class really focuses on the Patient Assessment System and how to start making decisions on patient care. The WFR is a 10-day long course (or the HWFR is a 5-date course with an online component) and is the industry standard certification for outdoor professionals who plan a career working with outdoor schools and outdoor touring/guiding companies..https://www.nols.edu/en/about/wilderness-medicine/
Location: Primary classroom will be held at Memorial Union in Madison-800 Langdon Street. We are not able to offer housing or camping for this course. There are hotels and hostels available nearby. Food is not provided but is available for purchase in the building and at nearby locations to Memorial Union. There is a refrigerator and microwave to chill and warm food. https://info.wisc.edu/plan-your-visit/
Register below, call, or stop in the office if there are any questions about this course. Office hours are posted at https://union.wisc.edu/events-and-activities/outdoor-uw/. For additional information or questions about this certification course please contact Dan Dunne 608-262-7445 ddunne@wisc.edu
Hoofer Club Leader Scholarship/Grant: If you are a current Hoofer club member and are hoping to take on more leadership within your club you may qualify for a scholarship/grant to offset the cost of this course. Please submit your application as soon as possible by applying through the links on hooferleaders.org. If you are awarded the scholarship/grant you will receive a follow-up email with directions on how to register for the course using a discount code.
* Several spots on this course will be reserved for Hoofer members. These spots will be released to the general public 1 month before the course start date *
Trailer Training #4
If you anticipate using a FLEET/DOA VEHICLE to tow a Hoofer-owned trailer at any point this fall or winter, then attend this class to get your trailer towing certification! This would include towing a sailboat for lift-out, towing the horse trailer, towing the alpine ski trailer, or possibly towing the outing club canoe trailer. Please note that if someone cannot make this class, other trailer trainings will be offered in the future. Outdoor UW plans on running two trainings each semester. FLEET AUTHORIZATION WITH WISCONSIN HOOFERS IS REQUIRED. If you are fleet authorized with another UW department, you must submit paperwork with our office as well to become fleet authorized with Hoofers. There is no cost for the class. We will meet before the driving demonstration to get started and review the basics. After a short presentation, we will be leaving our meeting location to perform the hands-on portion of the training—dress for being outside.
Previous experience driving a trailer is not required for this training, however, it is helpful as the in-person section doesn't provide much time to practice but instead is mostly meant to demonstrate skills and ability to drive a vehicle with a trailer.
If there are questions please reach out to Nathan (headofinstruction@hoofersailing.org).
Lake Mendota Conditions
How to Join
1. Create your Account!
Head over to our member site at https://members.hoofers.org to create your account! You don't have to officially join the club yet, but this will be required to sign up for Ground School. You must be a Union Member to officially join the club. Note that UW-Madison students are automatically granted Union membership.
2. Ground School!
Join us for Ground School, a FREE on-land presentation! This 90 minute guided tour and information session is required for all new Hoofer Sailing Club members. Ground School is available to Hoofer Sailing Club members, as well as to the broader campus community. Sign up here!
3. Sign Up for Events!
Once you've joined the club, you can search for events and sign up from the member site. Pick your favorite event, sign up, and get ready for an adventure!
For more information, click the button below!
Contact Us
Hoofer Sailing Club
Memorial Union, Lower Level
800 Langdon St.
Madison, WI 53706
(608) 262-1630
info@hoofersailing.org
Contact Us
Hoofer Youth Program
The Hoofer Youth Program offers quality on-the-water instruction with a focus on fun and learning. Courses in sailing, windsurfing, and racing are open to youth ages 10-18 and range from beginner to advanced.
Programs are designed to teach outdoor recreation skills while encouraging youth to have fun and develop personally in the areas of communication, self-reliance, sportsmanship, and respect for others. Hoofers promotes a constant awareness of safety, emphasizes the importance of working together, and teaches students to adapt themselves to the forces of nature.