What are Regional Training Groups?

The British Youth Sailing (BYS) Regional Training Groups (RTGs) are the RYA Performance programme of race training for Junior (U16) sailors in each region. The BYS recognised junior classes supported by the RTG programme are Optimist, Topper, RS Feva XL, ILCA 4, and Techno windsurfer. There are 6 regions in England as well as similar programmes in Scotland, Wales, and Northern Ireland.

BYS RTG Aims

Our aim is to deliver high quality local training, inspiring sailors to progress and thrive in the sport of sailing and become sailors for life. It also encourages them to develop the skills to be able to progress to their next class.

Our expectations

As sailors they take responsibility for planning and organising each weekend of training or racing. Ensuring their boat is well maintained and ready to train or race. This is achieved by rigging and preparing their boat to perform optimally on the conditions of the day.

Sailors will also consolidate their learning by training outside of the RTG weekends and committing to an appropriate competition programme.

The BYS RTG programme includes:

6 weekends of training including a residential camp. This will be made up of 14 days total in the hands of RYA qualified coaches delivering on-water coaching and specific training plans. There will also be off water webinars, workshops, and access to an online learning platform.

You’ll also receive progression advice from the Lead RTG Coach and RYA Regional Performance Manager (RTG) to move through the Junior and Youth programmes. As well as access to discounted products and services including branded clothing.

At the end of the season, an invitational event for the Eric Twiname Championships will be held on first May Bank Holiday. Here, all English and home country training groups RTGs will compete as a regional team event.