Sailing, known as "yachting" until the 2000 Sydney Olympic Games, became an international sport in 1851. First appearing in the 1900 Paris Games, the rules and regulations are constantly changing. Smaller boats have become preferred, with fewer crew members on board. Women have always been allowed to compete alongside men in this sport, but in 1984 an exclusive sailing event was introduced for women. The program now consists of men’s, women’s, and mixed sailing events.

Boats are sailed in races around courses, which incorporate a variety of different sailing angles: upwind, downwind, and reaching. A race may last between 30 and 75 minutes, depending on the event.

The International Sailing Federation (ISAF), the governing body for the sport of sailing, determines the size and specifications for the boats used in the competitions. Only ISAF-licensed builders construct the boats used in the Olympic events in an effort to allow the best sailor, and not the best boat, to win.

There are many other sailing competitions held year round across the globe for sailors of every age in addition to the Olympics. The Junior Olympic Sailing Program works with clubs and organizations around the country to host a series of competitions for youth ages 8 to 21 in an effort to develop skills and promote the enjoyment of sailing.

For many Chicagoans, sailing is not only a leisure activity but also a sport. Chicago Sailing, Columbia Yacht Club, and the Chicago Yacht Club provide opportunities for competitive sailing. The city’s ideal location also attracts high level competitive championships. In 2008, the Chicago Yacht Club at the Belmont Harbor sponsored the World Junior Sailing Championships. World Sport Chicago, a Chicago 2016 sister organization, sponsored the World Etchells Championships in 2008 and the North American Challenge Cup for Sailors with Disabilities.

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