Expressions of interest are now open for the 2027 ILCA Oceania Youth Solidarity Programme, a development initiative designed to grow participation in the ILCA 4 class and support young female sailors transitioning from junior fleets into youth performance sailing.
Now in its fifth year, the programme runs across New Zealand, Australia and selected Pacific Island nations. Its core objective is to promote the ILCA 4 to junior sailors considering a move into ILCA sailing and to increase participation at the Oceania and Australian Open and Youth ILCA Championships.
Each ILCA district selects one female sailor (aged between 13 and 16) to compete at the 2027 championships, held next year from 1 to 8 January at Sandringham Yacht Club in Melbourne. Selected sailors receive full event entry, a race-ready ILCA 4 charter boat, dedicated squad coaching during the regatta, and official programme merchandise.
The initiative is intentionally development-focused, with an emphasis on increasing female participation in the ILCA 4 fleet rather than results alone. Selection is based on factors including regatta experience, development potential, and the likelihood of ongoing progression within the class, as well as access considerations for sailors who may not otherwise be able to attend.
Yachting New Zealand is encouraging applications from eligible sailors, particularly Starling sailors and other junior-class athletes considering a move into ILCA sailing. The organisation will offer a targeted pre-event domestic coaching package for selected sailors – including up to four coaching sessions delivered by leading New Zealand sailors, designed to enhance preparation and maximise performance ahead of the regatta.
Please note that applicants for the Solidarity Programme must be aged 13 to 16 as of 1 January 2027.
Applications close 1 August 2026, with selections made in August and successful sailors confirmed by 30 August.
For more information, click here.
Click here to apply.
Originally published by Yachting New Zealand.
