GBR Yacht Racing Academy - Information...
The Yacht Racing Academy aims to develop and enhance the lives of young people through racing. Each year 50 young people are selected from hundreds of applicants to join the Academy and race onboard Farr 52s Bear of Britain and Chernikeeff 2. Candidates receive a unique blend of personal coaching, tuition and mentoring and are given the opportunity to participate in high profile races and regattas throughout the year.
Aims:
The Academy provides opportunities for young people aged between 18 and 25 irrelevant of background, financial circumstances and experience. The young people race in a series of regattas including Skandia Cowes Week, plus inshore and offshore races throughout the racing season. Not just about racing, the Yacht Racing Academy aims to develop key life skills including confidence, decision making, teamwork and trust as well as the sailing skills, attitude and fitness needed to compete against the professionals in the world of big boat racing.
Who is it for?
Anyone aged between 18 and 25 can apply to be part of the Yacht Racing Academy. Selection weekends take place at UKSA in April each year, and those who successfully make it through take part in an intensive two week training programme in preparation for the season’s racing. Some sailing experience is required but most importantly candidates need to demonstrate a positive attitude and willingness to learn.
What does it cost?
Candidates are asked to make a small contribution towards costs although those who have financial difficulties are offered assistance.
Who runs it?
The Yacht Racing Academy is run and managed by UKSA, a Cowes based registered charity focussed on maritime education and assisting young people in their personal growth and development through maritime activity.
How is it supported?
The Yacht Racing Academy is entirely funded by the generous donations of individuals and supporting companies. Peter Harrison and Andrew Palmer are generous supporters of the scheme and companies including Marlow Ropes, B&G, High Performance Development and Lewmar also assist the Academy. The charitable youth scheme is grateful or any help an assistance companies and individuals can offer – either through knowledge transfer, the provision of kit or financial assistance. If you would like to assist the Yacht Racing Academy, contact Ben Willows on ben.willows@uksa.org or 01983 294941.
Encouraging personal development through the thrill, skill and excitement of racing.