The Royal New Zealand Yacht Squadron (RNZYS) is proud to announce Emirates Team New Zealand (ETNZ) as the new naming partner of its prestigious Youth Training Programme (YTP), marking a significant step forward in supporting the development of New Zealand’s next generation of elite sailors.
Now entering its 39th year, the Youth Training Programme has long been recognised as a premier high-performance pathway for emerging Kiwi sailing talent. Built on the philosophy of developing great people and great sailors, the programme has produced not only world-class competitors but well-rounded individuals. Over the decades, more than 40 YTP alumni have gone on to spend time within Emirates Team New Zealand in a variety of roles across the team base.
This new partnership reinforces the deep connection between the two organisations and provides a powerful platform for the continued growth and success of the programme. Emirates Team New Zealand’s commitment will enable RNZYS to further enhance its ability to develop sailors capable of competing at the highest level of the sport.
The relationship builds on an already strong foundation, including Emirates Team New Zealand’s previous gifting of the Elliott 7 fleet to the programme; an asset that continues to play a key role in training and development.
RNZYS Commodore David Blakey said: “We’re absolutely delighted to welcome Emirates Team New Zealand as a major supporter of our Youth Training Programme, now proudly rebranded as the Emirates Team New Zealand Youth Training Programme. Recognised as world-leading, the programme continues to nurture talented young sailors and open pathways into successful careers across the professional yachting world. This landmark partnership comes at the perfect time, as we enter an exciting new era with Harry Thurston as coach and look ahead to celebrating the programme’s 40th anniversary next year.”
Emirates Team New Zealand CEO Grant Dalton added: “The pathway from grassroots to the pinnacle of our sport is critical, and the RNZYS Youth Training Programme has consistently delivered exceptional talent. We are proud to support the programme and invest in the future of New Zealand sailing by helping create opportunities for the next generation.”
RNZYS Youth Training Programme Performance Sailing Coach Harry Thurston, himself a graduate of the programme and a former Red Bull Youth America’s Cup sailor who has also spent time embedded with Emirates Team New Zealand, highlighted the broader impact of the partnership:
“This support not only strengthens the programme financially, but it also creates a meaningful connection between developing sailors and team competing at the very highest level. It’s incredibly exciting, and another reason why it’s such a great time to be stepping into this role.”
With a strengthened support and deeper integration with one of the world’s leading sailing teams, the newly named ETNZ Youth Training Programme is poised to continue its legacy of excellence: producing great people and great sailors.
