HRH The Princess Royal champions youth sailing at RYA’s 150th Anniversary Youth Nationals

Supporting the UK’s youth sailing scene and marking the Royal Yachting Association’s 150th anniversary, HRH The Princess Royal attended the RYA Youth National Championships at Plas Heli, Wales, on Tuesday 15 April 2025. 

During her visit, Her Royal Highness met with aspiring young sailors and dedicated sporting volunteers, offering encouragement and support as competitors took to the water. 

The annual five-day competition brings together 230 promising young sailors from across the UK serving as a launchpad for some of the world’s top racing talent, while also nurturing a lifelong passion for sailing. Open to sailors under the age of 21, the event features competitors as young as 14, with past champions returning to defend their titles against rising stars.

HRH The Princess Royal is no stranger to the Youth Nationals, having previously attended in 2022 and 2016 at the Welsh National Sailing Academy, as well as in 2018 (Largs) and 2017 (Hayling Island). Her continued support underscores the importance of this competition in developing both elite talent and a lifelong love of sailing.

Nick Scott, RYA Director of Racing, said: “The RYA Youth National Championships continue to be a vital platform for identifying and nurturing the next generation of British sailing talent as well as acting as pillar for friendships, family and community within the sailing world. It’s fantastic to see such enthusiasm and dedication from these young athletes, and we’re incredibly proud to welcome HRH The Princess Royal once again as part of our 150th anniversary celebrations.”

The 2025 RYA Youth National Championships will conclude on 18 April.  You can find the latest results from the competition online at 2025 RYA Youth National Championships.