Boost for young sailors as RYA announces youth and junior class investment

The Royal Yachting Association (RYA) has confirmed almost £160,000 of funding this year for Recognised Class Associations- supporting the delivery of quality racing and training opportunities to keep young people in the sport for life.

Part of Sport England's investment in sailing, the funding includes the launch of the new Evolution Fund, a dedicated pot to help classes trial fresh ideas that better support and retain young female sailors.  

“Backing the amazing work that classes do and working together” 

“Recognised Classes aren’t just part of the pathway - they’re central to it,” said Chris Atherton, RYA Junior Racing Manager. 

“They help create the environment where young sailors learn, grow, and fall in love with racing. This investment is about backing the amazing work classes do and working together to offer meaningful and enjoyable experiences that keep young people inspired and engaged in the sport”. 

From grassroots development through to pathway progression, investment will support jointly agreed programmes with class associations, creating opportunities nationwide for coaching, training, and competition, with stronger partnerships that support young sailors and their development.  

Extra investment is offered through the Evolution Fund for classes who want to trial new inclusive approaches to engage with young sailors such as different formats or new support structures supporting female competitors.  

A pathway that works for more people, more of the time

“Part of our wider commitment to building a pathway that works for more people, more of the time, this investment aligns with the RYA’s long-term goal of making Britain the best place in the world to develop female sailors for life” said Nick Scott, RYA Director of Racing. 

“By supporting creative solutions and innovation, we can tackle the barriers that prevent some young people from continuing their sailing journey. The investment also strengthens collaboration between the RYA and class associations, building on the new Class Recognition process to establish shared goals, stronger partnerships, and better support for sailors at every stage of their development”. 

RYA Pathway Evolution  

The RYA’s Pathway Evolution programme is a long-term plan to build a more joined-up, inclusive, and sustainable talent system. At its core is a simple aim: to create racing and training environments that develop people and keep them in sailing, wherever their ambitions lie. 

In April, The RYA’s Female Futures Group was launched, dedicated to increasing female participation and unlocking new opportunities for women and girls in the sport. 

You can read more about the Pathway Evolution and how the RYA is working with classes to shape the future of racing in the UK.  

Find more information about the Recognised Classes supported by British Youth Sailing.