Final call for British Keelboat Academy 2012 squad
11th August 2011Interested young sailors have just under a week to register their interest for the 2012 British Keelboat Academy squad selections, and the RYA and UKSA are urging young aspiring keelboat sailors to get their applications in quickly to avoid disappointment.
The British Keelboat Academy, the RYA and UKSA joint keelboat racing initiative, produces a constant stream of credible and talented young keelboat sailors by developing sailors’ sailing ability, technical and personal skills to allow them to compete at the top level. The programme is open to all 18-24 years olds with the aim of widening access to the sport of keelboat racing.
With a selection of squad members currently competing in the world famous Cowes week (6-13 August), and with a number of BKA sailors preparing for the challenging Rolex Fastnet Race next week (14-19 August), the opportunities are endless for those looking to develop their skills and experience in the world of keelboat racing.
Online applications for 2012 BKA squads are now open with selection trials scheduled for 17/18th and 24/25th September at UKSA. Applications close at 12pm on Monday 15th August with all experience levels welcome.
Luke McCarthy, BKA Head Coach, commented: “The BKA offer a unique programme so are looking for people who have a passion for the sport, are determined and eager to learn and are able to work well in a team on board a yacht or keelboat.”
“Through the BKA training, the squad members develop the skills to run a successful keelboat campaign, fast-tracking their development and progression towards racing at the highest level. Nearly half the squad are competing at Cowes Week as we speak on boats such as the Ker 46 ‘Tonnerre de Breskens’, Swan 42 ‘Magical Mystery Tour’, J109 ‘Axebelle’ as well as a number involved with the Artemis Figaro fleet, and we also have one of the youngest crews set to compete in the Rolex Fastnet Race.”
“The current squad are clearly now competing on great boats in a range of events, and the door is now open for another wave of talented young sailors to take advantage of the opportunities available through the British Keelboat Academy”, concluded McCarthy.
The BKA’s sponsors include X-Ray at 77 and Group Dental, plus a number of generous supporters and suppliers.