Applications are open for the British Keelboat Academy’s next intake of young sailors.
The BKA supports sailors aged between 18 and 24 to develop the skills, confidence and connections to join the world of keelboat and yacht racing.
No previous keelboat experience is necessary and would-be recruits are invited to apply for the 2024/25 BKA intake by midday on Wednesday 25 September 2024.
The BKA opens doors for young dinghy sailors who have the potential to become successful in keelboat racing and up to 64 applicants will be invited to attend a selection weekend at Port Solent, 23-24 November 2024.
Places are available for those who are demonstrably at the start of their keelboat pathway and selectors will consider dinghy racing experience and results, personal goals and enthusiasm, and availability for training weekends.
Coaches will also be on the lookout during the selection weekend for sailing skills, an ability to work with others, attitude and receptiveness to learning.
Around 40 sailors will then be invited to join the BKA's 2024/25 cohort.
"We are delighted to announce that applications are now open for the 2024/25 British Keelboat Academy," said Richard Moxey, RYA Keelboat Development Manager.
“The BKA is a popular and proven environment for those wanting to begin their journey into keelboat racing and we’re really looking forward to recruiting our next intake.”
BKA members benefit from shore-based technical modules and online theory sessions as well as on-water training weekends. The programme also develops transferable life and work skills including teamwork, leadership, project management and communication.
Alumni go on to compete across a wide range of disciplines including inshore keelboat racing, match racing, the British Keelboat League, Cowes Week and the Royal Ocean Racing Club’s offshore series.
Find out more and apply for the British Keelboat Academy 2024/5.