What We Do
In 2000, New York Yacht Club Commodore George “Dooie” Isdale commandeered a group of sailors who shared his vision of supporting promising athletes of all ages without widely-available resources to assist with their pursuits. It was from this collective passion that Commodore Isdale and his associates established the Sailing Foundation of New York (SFNY).
That vision has been carefully stewarded for more than two decades by SFNY President and Co-Founder, Thomas Stark. Throughout its history, SFNY has taken pride in building meaningful and diverse partnerships across the sport. The Foundation is entirely volunteer-managed, with no employees.
Most recently, SFNY has partnered with America One Racing, American Magic, The Schoonmaker Foundation, and the St. Francis Sailing Foundation on Project Podium and the Foiling Pipeline.
While this initiative represents the largest undertaking in SFNY’s history, it has not diverted focus from the Foundation’s core mission. SFNY continues to support sailors ranging in age from 13 to 71, competing at events around the world. Our reach spans disabled sailing and community sailing programs, America’s Cup campaigns, and singlehanded ocean racing.
We collaborate with partners where our missions align and work independently in areas not currently addressed by other organizations within the sailing community.
SFNY welcomes partners operating in different lanes, with varied approaches and perspectives. We remain solution-oriented and committed to finding ways to help wherever there is need.
Times change. Initiatives evolve. Technology advances. Olympic classes shift and partnerships come and go. Through it all, the Sailing Foundation of New York continues to adapt, providing a steady, trusted, and guiding hand to the sailing community it was founded to serve.
Our Initiatives
Project Podium
A high-performance initiative designed to provide America’s top sailing hopefuls with the elite coaching, technical expertise, and financial support they need to compete at the highest level.
Foiling Pipeline
A youth and emerging-athlete development program for modern high-performance foiling through structured coaching, equipment access, camps and competition. Leveraging local partnerships, it creates a clear, inclusive pathway that develops depth while preparing athletes for the technical, physical, and tactical demands of advanced international foiling.
Apply for an Account
Athletes and organizations are welcome to apply for an account with the SFNY.
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Get updates from SFNY about our athletes’ progress.
Support Our Sport
100% of your donation will be used to support our athletes and partner organizations.
SFNY is a 501(c)3 organization rated as a four-star charity on Charity Navigator. Donations to the SFNY are fully tax deductible to the extent allowed by law. 100% of all donations go to designated program support. Any costs are covered by the SFNY Board of Directors.
