The Youth Nautical Education Foundation (YNEF) is an all-volunteer organization focused on providing a wide range of learning opportunities to the Youth in our community. YNEF began as the Yachtsmen’s Committee in 1986 and became a 501c3 foundation in 2009 raising significant funding for Junior sailing, High School sailing, competitive regattas and seminars and provide 12 Scholarships to local sailors each year.
Saturday, April 11 2026, 7:30pm at the Grosse Pointe Yacht Club Ballroom
Dive into the story of native Grosse Pointer skipper Jim Murray, a dedicated crew of 1980s junior sailors, and a program that kept pushing forward—one race at a time.
By providing sponsorships, scholarship support, and attending Fund-raisers you can play a vital role in sustaining and expanding junior sailing. Contact us for details:
jjmorrow4@comcast.net
(313) 510-4058
788 Lakeshore Rd.,
Grosse Pointe Shores, MI 48236
The Youth Nautical Education Foundation is ushering in a new era by adding trailblazing talent to its board of directors: Dr. Michele Ramsdell, the first woman ever appointed, a dedicated physician and mother of four sailors, alongside Bora Gulari, a two-time Moth World Champion and 2016 U.S. Olympian.
You're invited on April 11, 2026, at the Grosse Pinte Yacht Club to hear the remarkable story of Callisto Racing: From Junior Sailing to the Sydney Hobart. Dive into the story of native Grosse Pointer skipper Jim Murray, a dedicated crew of 1980s junior sailors, and a program that kept pushing forward—one race at a time.
Local stars Liam Walz and Abie Griggs are charging toward the 2028 Los Angeles Olympics in the men's 49er—fresh off European campaigns like Princess Sofia and Kiel Week. Now training in Miami and fundraising for 2026's packed schedule (Vilamoura Grand Prix, Worlds, Euros & more).
May 16, 226 6:30 pm to 11:00 pm, join us after the Great Lakes boat show for the party of the season. Food, Drinks, Music, Dancing, Racing Simulators, and a live auction all to benefit youth sailing. Ticket information to be published soon but make sure you save the date.
In 2025, the Youth Nautical Education Foundation (YNEF) proudly awarded twelve students with $2,000 college scholarships. Since the program began in 2012, YNEF has granted a total of 150 scholarships. Of these, twelve have been permanently endowed to ensure ongoing support for future students.
Scholarships are granted based on applicants’ sailing involvement in the Detroit Regional Yacht-Racing Association Club Junior Programs, participation in high school or college freshman sailing teams, and their academic performance.
This year’s scholarship recipients were honored during a celebratory brunch held on May 18 at the Grosse Pointe Yacht Club. Pictured below and right are the 2025 honorees.
The application for the 2026 YNEF Scholarship is now available at ynef.org/scholarships. All completed applications must be submitted to the Grosse Pointe Yacht Club by April 4, 2026.
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