October 26, 2026

Zoe Carlson

I grew up sailing on Cape Cod, Massachusetts, out of Stage Harbor Yacht Club, where my parents and grandparents learned to sail. My love of the sport has only grown since my first Opti regatta at 9 years old. I raced Optis and C420s for 10 summers, then coached both teams out of Stage Harbor. I feel fortunate to spread the joy of sailing and work for an organization that is making it accessible to all.

I started at OYSF at the beginning of 2025 fundraising, coaching, and organizing programs. I also work for Willamette Sailing Club as Head Opti Coach and Program Coordinator. I am US Sailing Level 3 Head Instructor and Reach certified, serve as the Area L Regional Sailing Association Representative for US Sailing, and sit on Northwest Youth Sailing’s Advisory Board.

My favorite part of my job is coaching the Elementary and Middle School Opti race team and traveling around the PNW to coach at regattas. I race Day Sailers, crew on keelboat races up on the Columbia, and am getting better at ILCA sailing. When I’m not working, I love spending time with my family, biking, swimming, playing volleyball, seeing live music, and doing fiber arts.