A new dawn in the Australian sailing scene emerges today with the launch of Sail+ Racing, a performance team dedicated to elite athletes that aims to bridge the gap between youth and professional sailing. This innovative initiative promises to reshape the future of sailing in Australia by addressing critical challenges and providing unprecedented opportunities for young sailors.

More than 45% of youth sailors in Australia leave the sport after graduating high school. The absence of a clear route to professional sailing, limited support for Olympic hopefuls, and the high financial costs contribute to this low retention. Sail+ Racing is determined to tackle these issues head-on by partnering with sponsors, professional sailing teams, and local sailing clubs to offer young sailors the chance to participate in international sailing events that are typically out of reach.

“Our mission for 2024 is clear, we are going for gold,” commented Zac Quinlan, Co-Founder of Sail+. “We are focused on supporting up to two teams to qualify for the WMRT 2025 Women’s and Open World Finals. We are already ahead of schedule with our open team receiving an entry to the WMRT US Grand Slam 2025. This event is a crucial stepping stone towards our ultimate goal.”

Sail+ Racing’s proactive approach involves supporting athletes financially to compete at the highest levels, while also equipping them with the skills and knowledge necessary to achieve success. By providing a structured pathway and the necessary support, Sail+ Racing aims to retain youth sailors in the sport and help them achieve their long-term sailing aspirations.

In addition to financial backing, Sail+ Racing will offer mentorship programs, access to top-tier coaching, and opportunities to train and compete alongside seasoned professionals. This holistic support system is designed to develop agile sailors who can adapt and succeed in the evolving professional sailing landscape.

“We believe that the future of sailing in Australia depends on our ability to keep youth sailors engaged and motivated,” added Quinlan. “By creating a supportive and structured environment that leads beyond the traditional youth pathways, we hope to help youth sailors realise their full potential”

Sail+ Racing’s commitment extends beyond competition, with a focus on fostering a strong sense of community and camaraderie among young sailors and their connection to local clubs. The initiative will also emphasize the importance of sportsmanship, teamwork, and personal development, ensuring that participants grow both as athletes and individuals.

For more information about Sail+ Racing and how to support our athletes, please visit www.sailplus.com.au/racing.