Applications for the Regional Training Groups are now open!

Calling all junior racing sailors and windsurfers with a passion for improving their on-water skills! The Regional Training Groups, fondly known as the RTGs, are specifically designed to cater to you! These groups are dedicated to training young sailors who are truly committed to enhancing their abilities and are eager to take on new challenges alongside talented, like-minded peers.

Here's how you can boost your chances of being selected for these prestigious training groups.

Before submitting your application, firstly familiarise yourself with the RYA (Royal Yachting Association) Regional Training Group Selection Guidance Policy to maximise your chances of a successful invitation.

Secondly, sailors are then required to complete the Regional Training Group Application 2023-2024 form. Apply now before the summer holidays! The deadline dates are in September 2023 and vary slightly for each class and region.

How old do you need to be? 

Age limits vary by class, with the goal of facilitating optimal progression into Youth Class sailing and enhancing the likelihood of selection into Youth Performance Squads. Sailors need to meet specific age criteria, including being under 15 years old for Optimist, Topper, and RS Feva classes, under 15 years old for ILCA 4 (with girls under 16 years old), and under 16 years old for Bic Techno. However, sailors who slightly exceed the age limits are encouraged to apply, as exceptions can be made based on circumstances such as late entry, new class participation, or potential for improvement.

Any recent racing experience?

Let us know if you have attended a British Youth Sailing Regional Junior Championships in your region or if you have also participated in Class Open training events. These events demonstrate your sailing skills, attitude, and aptitude for training. By showing that a sailor has actively engaged in these opportunities displays their dedication to improvement and commitment to the sport.

Given the competitive nature of ILCA 4 class competition, it is expected that sailors attend at least two out of the three events in their respective region when applying.

Training fees

The RTGs are significantly subsidised by the RYA, offering excellent value for money. The fees cover coaching programmes, venue costs, RIB hire, administration, on-water coaching, and online support.

In England, fees range from £600 to £770 for the 2023-2024 programme, depending on the class. These fees include 14 days of training, a three-day residential for almost all classes, online enrichment sessions, and three days of racing at the RYA ET Championships. Fees may vary in other regions, so consult your Home Country Regional Performance Manager for accurate information.

When will I find out if my application is successful?

Evaluation of performance and the invitation procedure involves the BYS (British Youth Sailing) Regional Performance Manager (RPM) assessing your performance at the Regional Junior Championships and other nominated regional class events. Invitations to the RTGs will be issued by the RPM’s (Regional Performance Managers) in the autumn following the final indicator event.

Want to know more?

For more information on how you can get involved, visit the webpage - get involved (rya.org.uk)