Tucked into the scenic landscape just north of Springfield, Missouri, Fellows Lake is home to more than just beautiful views and serene waters — it’s also the heart of a thriving community of sailors brought together by the Springfield Sailing Club. What began as a small effort to get more people out on the water has grown into a vibrant hub for sailors of all ages, backgrounds, and experience levels.
The club’s mission is simple: foster appreciation for the natural world while building a welcoming, supportive community of sailing enthusiasts. "It all began when the former director wanted to get more people on the water," explains current Commodore Jamie Rasmussen. "We want to help people appreciate the natural beauty around them."
“The club offers an opportunity to get together and sail as well as relaxed racing, social activities and lessons with three of the members of the club that are certified instructors,” adds one of those instructors Stephanie Cooper. “We work with Fellows Lake to help support the sport and the mission of maintaining clean waters so we always have a beautiful place to play.”
The club offers a variety of events and opportunities to get involved, from competitive regattas on the weekends to laid-back evening races during the week. And the community extends beyond the lake as well. Twice a year, the club hosts social gatherings at local restaurants where members make plans, share stories, and give out awards. These get-togethers solidify the friendships built on the water and make newcomers feel at home.
One of the most striking things about the Springfield Sailing Club is its inclusivity. “The people who participate really vary,” says Jamie. “It’s really a sport that anyone can enjoy.” That includes her own young daughters, ages four and nine, who often join her out on the lake. “Some of my favorite pictures are of the kids steering the boat,” she says.
Many people are surprised to learn that sailing can be accessible and affordable. “There’s this idea that sailing is a rich person’s sport, but it’s really not,” Jamie emphasizes. “You don’t have to have experience or money. You just need to have enthusiasm.” In fact, membership in the club is only $50, and you don’t even need to own a boat to join. Many boat owners are more than happy to welcome newcomers aboard as crew.
“There are really inexpensive options for boats,” she adds. “I bought my first boat off Craigslist for $500.” Whether you’re a complete novice or someone who’s always dreamed of setting sail, the club has resources and connections to help you find your footing — and maybe even your own boat.
The joys of sailing go beyond the mechanics of wind and water. For Jamie, it’s a powerful way to reconnect with something timeless. “Getting out on the water and appreciating that important connection to nature and history that people have been doing for millennia is really special,” she reflects.
Beyond that sense of awe and history, sailing teaches real-world skills that are increasingly valuable in today’s fast-paced, digital world. “You encounter issues that you have to address, like what to do when a piece of equipment breaks or when the wind shifts,” Jamie says. “It teaches communication and problem solving.”
“For me, I feel that sailing teaches patience mostly,” adds Stephanie. “This is because there is nothing you can do about the wind. Sometimes you get out on the water and it's great then just disappears. It also teaches communication because, unless you are sailing by yourself, you have to communicate with your crew. These skills really translate to everyday life.”
There’s also an undeniable thrill that comes with mastering a boat. “In today’s world, it’s easy to feel powerless, but sailing does offer a real sense of accomplishment,” Jamie explains. “When you get on that boat you’re in control. You can’t do that with other things.”
Still, she’s quick to note that sailing doesn’t require perfection — just a willingness to learn and grow. “Owning and sailing a boat are very different skills,” she says. “Owning can take a lot of work.” That’s why the club encourages participation in any form, whether you want to skipper your own boat, learn the ropes as a crew member, or just enjoy a day on the water now and then.
At Fellows Lake, you’ll find a diverse community of both owners and renters, all united by a shared passion. “It’s a community of people with like skills,” Jamie says. “It’s not something that everyone does, so there is a real camaraderie between people who have a shared interest.”
That camaraderie is perhaps the most special part of the Springfield Sailing Club. It’s not just about wind and water — it’s about connection. To nature. To tradition. And to one another.
“We really want to encourage all people to come out and we don’t want anyone to be intimidated,” Jamie says. “There is a way for everyone to be involved.”
While novice sailors can head down to the lake and join a crew, there are a few essential pieces of equipment that Jamie recommends. In addition to basics like plenty of water and sunblock, each sailor should have a good pair of sailing gloves, weather appropriate clothes, and a pair of closed-toe, non-skid shoes for the boat.
We really want to encourage all people to come out and we don’t want anyone to be intimidated. There's a way for everyone to be involved.