In Redondo Beach, sailing isn’t just a pastime — it’s a gateway to confidence, teamwork, and lifelong skills, and no one knows this better than the King Harbor Youth Foundation (KHYF). Established in 1982, KHYF is a nonprofit organization dedicated to introducing kids to the joys of sailing while providing them with valuable life lessons along the way. Nestled in the vibrant King Harbor Marina, the foundation has become a cornerstone for local youth, fostering not just sailors, but future leaders.
“We believe every kid should have the chance to experience the ocean and learn the skills that come with being on the water,” says Roger O’Connor, KHYF Director. From beginners navigating their first Opti to high school teams vying for regatta titles, the foundation offers a comprehensive range of programs designed to inspire and educate. Whether it’s the Learn to Sail classes, high school racing teams, or community outreach through the New Channels program, KHYF ensures that every sailor, regardless of background, gets the chance to thrive.
What sets KHYF apart is its US Sailing Accreditation. “Our coaches are US Sailing certified, meaning every sailor here receives the highest level of instruction and safety,” O’Connor adds. The program not only teaches technical sailing skills but also instills principles like responsibility, resilience, and the Corinthian spirit. Many KHYF alumni go on to join college teams, become junior coaches, or even compete internationally. “A significant fraction of the sailors that pass through our program have gone on to collegiate sailing, Governor’s Cup, match racing in Australia, New Zealand, and Europe, Congressional Cup, Transpac and Mexico races, and several national championships and Olympic campaigns,” O’Connor says.
Since its inception, KHYF has trained over 2,000 youth, primarily from the South Bay area. “Possibly of greater importance, the majority of our students have gone on to become outstanding citizens with good leadership skills and solid ethics,” O’Connor reflects. “And many who were trained in classes even before 1982 when we created the foundation still sail very competitively today.”
Sailing at King Harbor isn’t just for kids. KHYF extends its mission to the wider community through initiatives like the Open House Fundraiser and Sail Away Boat Charters, which provide sailing opportunities to adults and families. Scholarships are also available for those in need, ensuring that cost is never a barrier to getting out on the water. “Every donation helps us maintain our fleet, provide equipment to our sailors, and keep our programs accessible to all,” O’Connor notes.
With over 35 boats, eight trailers, and a dedicated team of instructors, the foundation is a well-oiled operation fueled by passion, purpose, and a deep connection to the Redondo Beach community. “We’re more than just a sailing school,” O’Connor says. “We’re building character, confidence, and a lifelong love for the ocean.”
O’Connor explains that KHYF funding comes from fundraising, class fees, grants, and donations. “Our largest single income source is our summer sailing program where we teach over 150 kids sailing over eight weeks,” he says. “We teach beginner and intermediate sailing in spring, summer, and fall and we have an Opti race team, high school race teams from Redondo, Mira Costa, and South Torrance, and our elite KHYF Race Team. These teams currently total about 65 sailors.”
On the fundraising front, KHYF hosts an annual Open House, a Go-Fund-Me event where race team sailors solicit funds, and a Sail GP on-the-water viewing event. The foundation also participates in the Beachlife Festival and the King Harbor Boat Parade, two additional sources of income. “We run special fundraising events when additional capital is needed to replace a set of boats or buy new sails, masts, and other equipment,” O’Connor says. “All of our fundraising events are open to the public, and we would of course appreciate any support available.”
As the city’s only US Sailing Accredited school, KHYF remains committed to its mission of providing youth and underserved populations with safe, high-quality sailing instruction — one wave at a time.
To learn more about upcoming programs, community events, or how to support the King Harbor Youth Foundation, visit khyf.org or stop by the King Harbor Yacht Club for a firsthand look at the sailors in action. After all, in Redondo Beach, there’s always more to “sea” and do.
