Getting into keelboat racing

Programmes to help you get into Keelboat racing

The United Kingdom has very strong domestic and international keelboat racing heritage. From racing in the Clyde to competing for the Americas Cup, there are many opportunities to get involved in keelboat racing all around the UK, no matter your level.

Whether it be Match Racing, Inshore Racing or Offshore Racing, there are many RYA affiliated organisations that run Keelboat activities and programmes aimed at giving sailors the chance to stay involved in this exciting and accessible side of our sport.

For those seeking details on the RYA Keelboat Academy, we regret to confirm that the programme will not be running from the 2025/26 season. The RYA is currently reviewing all programmes to ensure we are delivering the best possible value and support for future generations of sailors.

However, if you want to get into keelboat racing, the details of programmes provided by RYA affiliates can be found below.

If you want help working out what is right for you, please contact keelboatracing@rya.org.uk

Below are a list of organisations to help you get into keelboat racing

UK Etchells Youth Academy

This well established and successful programme based in Cowes offers teams of sailors aged 18-29, the chance to develop their skills against likeminded and a highly competitive class. The Academy consists of 5 weekend training camps including a selection weekend. Simply register interest to apply for the 5 training/selection weekends with expert coaching. Successful teams will be offered the use of an Etchells for the remaining season.

RORC Griffin Offshore Pathway

The Griffin Offshore Pathway provides an entry point to give talented 18-30 year old sailors an introduction to offshore sailing, and a guided development framework to become proficient offshore sailors. The 2025 Griffin Offshore Pathway will offer increased opportunities to sailors across various offshore disciplines, onboard a variety of racing boats. The programme will enable three fully crewed squads to compete in the RORC Season's Points Championship, as well as various JOG races.

Generation JOG

JOG runs a full programme every season grouped into an inshore and offshore series. Competitors expect to enjoy a high standard of racing using internationally recognised racing standards. We’re a community that shares unique yacht racing experiences and emphasise the social aspect of JOG. Generation JOG aimed at sailors under 30, offers support, training, and a network of like-minded young sailors. Set sail with us and discover the thrill of yacht racing!

Royal Thames YC Academy

The RTYC Academy provides competitive racing opportunities for club members aged 26 or under. The primary activity is Team Racing and the Academy aims to have up to three teams competing on the national Firefly Team Racing circuit in a season. In addition the Academy is able to provide opportunities for sailors in competitive yacht fleet racing throughout the Solent and Mediterranean as well as international keelboat and dinghy team racing events both in the UK and in the US. The Academy hosts ‘open’ events each season to allow Non Academician Younger Members and potential new members the opportunity to showcase their skills ahead of team selections. These are either in the clubs Sonars or Fireflies hired for the purpose.

Royal Southern YC Academy

The Royal Southern Yacht Club is dedicated to supporting the sailing, racing and social endeavours of our younger members. Training and events are aimed at members under 30 and include 2 keelboat league events during the season.

Young Tigris Programme

For young teams or individuals, this is a great opportunity to get a taste of the growing activity of double handed offshore racing and to be able to compete with the best as co-skippers. If you are interested in participating, please visit the facebook group to find contact information.

Magenta Project

Across the marine industry, from the intense environment onboard race boats to the practical settings of boatyards and the wider marine industry, women navigate a complex landscape of challenges that mirror those of the corporate boardroom. These hurdles extend beyond simple discrimination, encompassing limited access to opportunities, support, difficulties in obtaining certifications, and the pervasive impact of systemic bias. Recognising these inequities, The Magenta Project, an award-winning global charity, is dedicated to building a sustainable network and implementing impactful programmes. Our mission is simple: to ensure greater equity and inclusion for women in the sport and the wider marine industry, by working to dismantle the barriers that hinder their full participation and advancement. A 9 month programme for over 18s who are motivated to advance their sailing career. Experienced sailors help women grow their careers, build confidence and break barriers in sailing.

Cowes Match Racing

Match Race training based in Cowes, lead by Graham Sunderland. If you are interested in participating, please visit the facebook group to find contact information.

Events to build experience

RYA Match Racing

Open to all. Teams of 3-5 sailors, sailing on matched keelboats provided by the organising authority, one on one racing, first across the finish line wins. A fantastic chance to improve your boat handling and rules knowledge. Events take throughout the year at venues across the country from Royal Northern & Clyde YC, to Queen Mary SC, Burnham-on-Crouch, Hamble and WPNSA. #Rockupandrace

British Keelboat League

An inclusive opportunity for everyone who loves our sport. Breaks down barriers to participation in keelboat racing, as boats are provided by the British Keelboat League hosts. Delivered through the concept of concentrated inter-club team sailing, which is highly successful in other parts of Europe and across North America. Sailors compete representing their club in a series of short sprint races against teams from other clubs in their region in a qualifying round of weekend racing. The finest teams from each region then battle it out in a national final to be crowned the British Keelboat League champions.

UK Double Handed Offshore Series

The aim of the UK Double Handed Offshore Series is to cherry pick the best Double Handed Offshore Races on offer each year and combine them into one season long series. A Double Handed Offshore Series for professionals, amateurs, Olympic hopefuls and young and up and coming talent looking to make a name for themselves. Running a DH crew match service with a personal touch to match the right sailors to these opportunities.

While the BKA will not be taking applications in 2025-2026 we would still like to celebrate the past graduates of the British Keelboat Academy that have gone on to have successful professional and amateur careers in the sailing industry. Including Americas Cup, Sail GP, Vendee Globe and many European and World championships. They have forged connections, networked and had some fantastic experiences. Past success stories include Sam Goodchild (BKA 2007-2009) who completed the Vendee Globe in 2024/25, David (Freddie) Carr (BKA 2003-05 and Etchells Alumni) has competed in 6 Americas cups, Kate Ledgard (BKA 2020) joined Maiden for the Ocean Globe Race in 2024.

Over 1000 sailors have been part of the BKA over the last 22 years. A full list of all BKA sailors is available. Past squad sailors can request to join the alumni Facebook group by emailing keelboatracing@rya.org.uk

If you have any questions please email the RYA Keelboat Team.

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