
Hoofer Sailing Club
Set Sail
Tong Family Marina
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Hoofer Youth
Youth Sailing Summer Camp
UW Sailing Team
GO GO WISCO!The Hoofer Sailing Club, established in 1939, is a collection of students and community members working together to maintain a fleet of boats for 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 (the best way to become a better sailor) and to be involved in club leadership.
By doing as much of the work as possible ourselves, we can keep our membership dues incredibly low. Compare our dues to other yacht clubs, where you may have to pay up to $1,000 per month in dues just to maintain your membership and then pay hundreds of dollars more for lessons and the expense of private boat ownership.
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. Friendships made all the stronger by common interests and a shared sense of pride in a job well done. 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.
The majority of our membership is made up of individuals wanting to just take a few lessons and learn the basics of sailing. Yet our intercollegiate sailing team often ranks in the top 20 in the nation. We also have a committed group of long-time members to add to the great mix that is Hoofer Sailing Club.
News

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.
The famous Friday socials are starting up May 19th @ 6pm. Come down and enjoy the Nacho bar with your fellow sailors.
Elections for Commodore, Vice-Commodore, or Rear Commodore will be held between Tuesday, March 21 and Monday, March 27. Information about the canidates will be posted on the website. Be sure to check the Elections page for updates.

Our Winter Sailing Seminars are a great way to expand your horizons during the winter months. The seminars are open to the community and no prior sailing experience is required; you do not need to be a current member of the sailing club to attend. Feel free to invite your landlubber friends!
See more here!
Hello Hoofer Sailors,
Thanks for a great season of sailing with you all! Below are the dates for the end of season. If you are able, please volunteer for liftouts on Rechub.
- Light Keelboat fleet lift-out: 10/14
- Keelboat lift-out: 10/21(fri) & 29(sat)
- Last day for moorings: 10/30
- Pull Marina Docks: 10/31-11/7 *all hands*
- Last Day for Rentals: 10/23
- Last day for Sailing: 10/30
- Remove Moorings: Week of 10/31-11/4
- Move T-dock: week of 11/7
Upcoming Events
Hoofer Council President Office Hours
Come chat with the Hoofer Council President! Whether you have questions, concerns, ideas, or Hoofer highlights to share, drop by the Outdoor UW Leader Lounge (B105, located across from Mendota Lodge in the lower level of Memorial Union - ask the front desk staff if you're having trouble locaing it).
Weekly Office Hours:
Monday
- 11 AM to 2 PM
Tuesday
- 12 PM to 2 PM
Wednesday
- 11 AM to 2 PM
Thursday
- 11 AM to 1 PM
Outdoor Explorer Series (Introductory Course): Staying Safe in Bear Country
Join Outdoor UW for their new Outdoor Explorer Series. Learn and practice a new skill that will make you more comfortable and excited for your next adventure!
Join us at our introductionary bear saftey course to learn the difference between black and brown bears, how to safely travel in bear county, and more. This course will help provide you with a bear saftey toolkit to make you more confident and safe while traveling in bear country.
Class Learning Outcomes:
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Identify the difference between bears
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Understand where “bear country” is and what bear signs look like
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Learn how to safely navigate and camp in bear country
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How to set up a campsite in bear country
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Practice with bear safety tools
Winter Kiting Classroom
Event Description: This classroom lesson will cover the basics of kiting and serve as an introduction to the sport. Important kiting concepts and theories will be covered and demonstrated through instructional videos. A trainer kite will also be available for use and viewing so that aspects of rigging can be taught prior to taking the outdoor classes. A brief talk on ice safety will also be given. Students who have already progressed to outdoor classes but have yet to see the video are also welcome. This class must be taken prior to taking a Winter Kiting A lesson.
Prior to attending this class, students should review the Winter Kiting Manual and the following videos:
A playlist with more detailed information on snowkiting can be found here. This information will be covered in class and does not need to be watched beforehand.
Location: Check the Today in the Union website or the digital signs in Memorial Union on the day of the lesson. Note that the event start time may appear earlier on the TITU listing but will begin at the time shown here. If the event does not appear on the TITU listing, please go to the Outdoor UW Office and speak with the staff to determine the event location.
Prerequisites: None
Students who complete this lesson will receive an Intro to Kiting Attendance rating.
Post-Lesson Resources:
Winter Kiting A: Kite Flying - U Bay Fields
Event Description: The lesson will cover techniques for safely launching and flying a kite on land. Students will work in pairs with the guidance of their instructor to practice these skills. Students should come prepared with warm, comfortable clothing. Warm, waterproof shoes with good traction are recommended. You do not need to bring skis or snowboard; there will be no riding.
Prior to attending this class, students should review the Winter Kiting Manual and the following videos:
Location: This lesson takes place at University Bay Fields. Students should meet at the shelter at the Northwest end of the fields.
Prerequisites: Intro to Kiting Attendance (obtained by attending a Winter Kiting Classroom lesson). Students may attend without taking the classroom but must take the classroom before being granted the Kiting A rating.
Students who take this lesson will be working toward earning their Winter Kiting Kite Flying (A) rating. It may take several lessons to achieve proficiency in the skills that constitute the rating. Ratings are issued at the discretion of the instructor.
Post-Lesson Resources:
NOLS Wilderness Medicine - Wilderness First Responder 10-day Course (WFR) - 21255
Description: The Wilderness First Responder (WFR) course is a 10-day long 80-hour course taught by NOLS Wilderness Medicine. The WFR 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 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/
* 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 *
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 - Wilderness First Responder Recertification 3-day Course (WFR-Recert) - 21256
Description: The Wilderness First Responder Recertification (WFR-Recert) course is a 3-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 in your 1-year grace period. 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/
* 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 *
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.
Full Moon Snow & S'mores with Outdoor UW
Under the luminous embrace of a full moon, embark on a snowy expedition across Lake Mendota to the captivating Picnic Point. Revel in the warmth of a crackling campfire, delighting in the ritual of crafting s'mores, before retracing your moonlit steps back to the heart of the adventure at Memorial Union.
The Full Moon hike will be done on snowshoes if conditions allow. Snowshoes are provided by Outdoor UW. The hike will be done on foot if there is no snow. Please wear winter boots for this event and dress accordingly.
***If you are a person with a disability needing reasonable accommodation, please contact our Co-Managers, ouwmanager@union.wisc.edu
Abba Skate Night with Outdoor UW
Embark on a time-traveling adventure at our Themed Ice Skate Night - ABBA Extravaganza, where the ice rink pulses with the infectious beats of ABBA and other 70s hits. Glide seamlessly across the ice, transported to the disco era, as the rink becomes a dance floor filled with the energy of the iconic tunes. Join us for a night of pure nostalgia and groovy moves, creating timeless memories on the ice.
Skate rentals are available at $5 for students per hour and $7 for non-students per hour. Skate rentals are available first to those registered (below) for the event. 15 minutes BEFORE the event begins we will call down the list of those registered to select their skates. Once those who are registered for the event (and present before the event begins) have their skates, rentals will be available to those not registered on a first-come, first-served basis. Youth under 18 need to be accompanied by a legal guardian at this event.
<<< PLEASE COME 15 MINUTES BEFORE THE EVENT TO ALLOW TIME TO BE FIT FOR SKATES >>>
***Limited sizes of ice skates are available. Skates are rented out on a first-come, first-served basis.
***If you are a person with a disability needing reasonable accommodation, please contact our Co-Managers, ouwmanager@union.wisc.edu
Outdoor Explorer Series (Introductory Course): Psychology of the Outdoors
More info coming soon!
First Year Student FREE Skate Night
Enjoy an enchanting winter adventure with Outdoor UW's First-Year Student Ice Skating Night on the frozen splendor of Lake Mendota! Glide gracefully under the starlit sky, as the ice becomes your canvas for forging new friendships and creating unforgettable memories against the iconic backdrop of our university. Join us for a night of laughter, spins, and the joy of ice skating, making this event the perfect introduction to Madison's winter wonderland.
NO REGISTRATION REQUIRED! See you out there.
<<<PLEASE COME 15 MINUTES BEFORE THE EVENT TO ALLOW TIME TO BE FIT FOR SKATES >>>
***Limited sizes of ice skates are available. Skates are rented out on a first-come, first-served basis.
***If you are a person with a disability needing reasonable accommodation, please contact our Co-Managers, ouwmanager@union.wisc.edu
Learn to Skate on Lake Mendota with Rec Well
Discover the thrill of gliding on ice at Outdoor UW's Learn to Ice Skate event, where expert instruction from UW Rec Well turns Lake Mendota into your frosty classroom! Whether you're a first-timer or looking to polish your skills, this picturesque setting provides the perfect backdrop for mastering the art of ice skating. Join us for laughter, learning, and graceful slides as you embrace the magic of skating on the frozen beauty of Lake Mendota
Skate rentals are available at $5 for students per hour and $7 for non-students per hour. Skate rentals are available first to those registered (below) for the event. 15 minutes BEFORE the event begins we will call down the list of those registered to select their skates. Once those who are registered for the event (and present before the event begins) have their skates, rentals will be available to those not registered on a first-come, first-served basis. Youth under 18 need to be accompanied by a legal guardian at this event.
<<< PLEASE COME 15 MINUTES BEFORE THE EVENT TO ALLOW TIME TO BE FIT FOR SKATES >>>
***Limited sizes of ice skates are available. Skates are rented out on a first-come, first-served basis.
***If you are a person with a disability needing reasonable accommodation, please contact our Co-Managers, ouwmanager@union.wisc.edu
Snow & S'mores with Outdoor UW
Venture into the winter wonderland of Lake Mendota as you hike or snowshoe to the secluded haven of Picnic Point. Gather around a roaring campfire, where the crackling flames set the scene for camaraderie and the creation of delicious s'mores, before embarking back to Memorial Union.
The Full Moon hike will be done on snowshoes if conditions allow. Snowshoes are provided by Outdoor UW. The hike will be done on foot if there is no snow. Please wear winter boots for this event and dress accordingly.
***If you are a person with a disability needing reasonable accommodation, please contact our Co-Managers, ouwmanager@union.wisc.edu
Family Ice Skating Night
Gather the whole family for an exhilarating night of frosty festivities at Outdoor UW's Family Night on Ice! Dive into the icy fun with an array of skating games, from limbo challenges to gliding combinations that promise laughter and friendly competition. With freeze skate showdowns, thrilling curling matches, and skating races, this event transforms Lake Mendota into a winter wonderland of family bonding and frozen excitement!
Skate rentals are available at $5 for students per hour and $7 for non-students per hour. Skate rentals are available first to those registered (below) for the event. 15 minutes BEFORE the event begins we will call down the list of those registered to select their skates. Once those who are registered for the event (and present before the event begins) have their skates, rentals will be available to those not registered on a first-come, first-served basis. Youth under 18 need to be accompanied by a legal guardian at this event.
<<< PLEASE COME 15 MINUTES BEFORE THE EVENT TO ALLOW TIME TO BE FIT FOR SKATES >>>
***Limited sizes of ice skates are available. Skates are rented out on a first-come, first-served basis.
***If you are a person with a disability needing reasonable accommodation, please contact our Co-Managers, ouwmanager@union.wisc.edu
Skate Night With Outdoor UW - Taylor's Version
Get ready to lace up your skates and dance on ice at our enchanting Ice Skate Night - (Taylor’s Version)! Glide through the rink to the chart-topping beats of Taylor's greatest hits, from "Shake It Off" to "Love Story," experience a night of fearless spins, dazzling twirls, and unforgettable memories as you embrace the magic of Taylor Swift on ice!
Skate rentals are available at $5 for students per hour and $7 for non-students per hour. Skate rentals are available first to those registered (below) for the event. 15 minutes BEFORE the event begins we will call down the list of those registered to select their skates. Once those who are registered for the event (and present before the event begins) have their skates, rentals will be available to those not registered on a first-come, first-served basis. Youth under 18 need to be accompanied by a legal guardian at this event.
<<< PLEASE COME 15 MINUTES BEFORE THE EVENT TO ALLOW TIME TO BE FIT FOR SKATES >>>
***Limited sizes of ice skates are available. Skates are rented out on a first-come, first-served basis.
***If you are a person with a disability needing reasonable accommodation, please contact our Co-Managers, ouwmanager@union.wisc.edu
Learn to Skate on Lake Mendota with Rec Well
Discover the thrill of gliding on ice at Outdoor UW's Learn to Ice Skate event, where expert instruction from UW RecWell turns Lake Mendota into your frosty classroom! Whether you're a first-timer or looking to polish your skills, this picturesque setting provides the perfect backdrop for mastering the art of ice skating. Join us for laughter, learning, and graceful slides as you embrace the magic of skating on the frozen beauty of Lake Mendota.
Skate rentals are available at $5 for students per hour and $7 for non-students per hour. Skate rentals are available first to those registered (below) for the event. 15 minutes BEFORE the event begins we will call down the list of those registered to select their skates. Once those who are registered for the event (and present before the event begins) have their skates, rentals will be available to those not registered on a first-come, first-served basis. Youth under 18 need to be accompanied by a legal guardian at this event.
<<< PLEASE COME 15 MINUTES BEFORE THE EVENT TO ALLOW TIME TO BE FIT FOR SKATES >>>
***Limited sizes of ice skates are available. Skates are rented out on a first-come, first-served basis.
***If you are a person with a disability needing reasonable accommodation, please contact our Co-Managers, ouwmanager@union.wisc.edu
Snow & S'mores with Outdoor UW
Venture into the winter wonderland of Lake Mendota as you hike or snowshoe to the secluded haven of Picnic Point. Gather around a roaring campfire, where the crackling flames set the scene for camaraderie and the creation of delicious s'mores, before embarking back to Memorial Union.
Snow & S'mores will be done on snowshoes if conditions allow. Snowshoes are provided by Outdoor UW. The hike will be done on foot if there is no snow. Please wear winter boots for this event and dress accordingly.
***If you are a person with a disability needing reasonable accommodation, please contact our Co-Managers, ouwmanager@union.wisc.edu
Outdoor Explorer Series (Introductory Course): Intro to X-Country Ski
Join Outdoor UW for their new Outdoor Explorer Series. Learn and practice a new skill that will make you more comfortable and excited for your next adventure!
Intro to XC Skiing (In collaboration with th Hoofer Outing Club)
Getting outside during winter in Wisconsin can be a bit challenging…xc skiing to the rescue! We will learn about the basics of xc skiing in the classroom, then move onto the lake for some hands-on practice. Join us on this introductory course to learn the ins and outs of this winter activity.
Upon completion of this class, participants will:
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Learn about what xc skiing is and why it is popular
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Understand the difference between classic and skate skiing
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Learn about what gear is needed to have a successful trip
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Get hands-on practice on xc skis
*** Cross country ski-ing gear will be provided for practice purposes at this event ****
Valentine's Day Skate Night
Celebrate the magic of love under the shimmering winter night sky at our enchanting Ice Skating Night on Valentine's Day! Glide hand in hand with your special someone to the rhythm of romantic themed music, creating unforgettable moments on the glistening ice. Warm up by the crackling campfire, savoring the sweet indulgence of hot chocolate and s'mores. Celebrate Valentine's Day with us, creating lasting memories on the ice.
Skate rentals are included in registration cost. Skate rentals are available first to those registered (below) for the event. 15 minutes BEFORE the event begins we will call down the list of those registered to select their skates. Once those who are registered for the event (and present before the event begins) have their skates, rentals will be available to those not registered on a first-come, first-served basis. Youth under 18 need to be accompanied by a legal guardian at this event.
<<< PLEASE COME 15 MINUTES BEFORE THE EVENT TO ALLOW TIME TO BE FIT FOR SKATES >>>
***Limited sizes of ice skates are available. Skates are rented out on a first-come, first-served basis.
***If you are a person with a disability needing reasonable accommodation, please contact our Co-Managers, ouwmanager@union.wisc.edu
Learn to Skate on Lake Mendota with Rec Well
Discover the thrill of gliding on ice at Outdoor UW's Learn to Ice Skate event, where expert instruction from UW RecWell turns Lake Mendota into your frosty classroom! Whether you're a first-timer or looking to polish your skills, this picturesque setting provides the perfect backdrop for mastering the art of ice skating. Join us for laughter, learning, and graceful slides as you embrace the magic of skating on the frozen beauty of Lake Mendota.
Skate rentals are available at $5 for students per hour and $7 for non-students per hour. Skate rentals are available first to those registered (below) for the event. 15 minutes BEFORE the event begins we will call down the list of those registered to select their skates. Once those who are registered for the event (and present before the event begins) have their skates, rentals will be available to those not registered on a first-come, first-served basis. Youth under 18 need to be accompanied by a legal guardian at this event.
<<< PLEASE COME 15 MINUTES BEFORE THE EVENT TO ALLOW TIME TO BE FIT FOR SKATES >>>
***Limited sizes of ice skates are available. Skates are rented out on a first-come, first-served basis.
***If you are a person with a disability needing reasonable accommodation, please contact our Co-Managers, ouwmanager@union.wisc.edu
Family Ice Skating Night with Outdoor UW
Gather the whole family for an exhilarating night of frosty festivities at Outdoor UW's Family Night on Ice! Dive into the icy fun with an array of skating games, from limbo challenges to gliding combinations that promise laughter and friendly competition. With freeze skate showdowns, thrilling curling matches, and high-speed skating races, this event transforms Lake Mendota into a winter wonderland of family bonding and frozen excitement
Skate rentals are available at $5 for students per hour and $7 for non-students per hour. Skate rentals are available first to those registered (below) for the event. 15 minutes BEFORE the event begins we will call down the list of those registered to select their skates. Once those who are registered for the event (and present before the event begins) have their skates, rentals will be available to those not registered on a first-come, first-served basis. Youth under 18 need to be accompanied by a legal guardian at this event.
<<< PLEASE COME 15 MINUTES BEFORE THE EVENT TO ALLOW TIME TO BE FIT FOR SKATES >>>
***Limited sizes of ice skates are available. Skates are rented out on a first-come, first-served basis.
***If you are a person with a disability needing reasonable accommodation, please contact our Co-Managers, ouwmanager@union.wisc.edu
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.