Junior & Youth Sail Training 2026-27

This registration is for Youth Sail Training, the youth component of our broader Junior & Youth Sail Training program.

Youth Sail Training is for young sailors who want to make sailing their regular sport, develop their skills and confidence, and enjoy sailing with other young people.

The program is designed for youth sailors who are new to their boat or developing their skills, as well as sailors who already participate in Club racing in ILCAs or Sabres.

Who is this program for?

Youth Sail Training is for young sailors who are ready to develop their sailing skills and become more confident and capable sailors.

Sailors may be progressing from the BYS junior program, have completed Tackers, OutThere or another introductory sailing program, or already be participating in Club racing.

The program caters for sailors at different stages. Some may be learning to sail an ILCA or Sabre for the first time, while others may already have racing experience and want to continue developing their skills.

Coaches will consider each sailor's current skills, experience and confidence when determining the most appropriate training group.

Boats

Youth Sail Training is primarily for sailors sailing their own boats.

The program supports sailors sailing ILCA and Sabre dinghies.

If your sailor is moving into an ILCA or Sabre for the first time, the program provides an opportunity to develop the boat handling skills and confidence needed to sail their new boat.

For sailors already participating in Club racing, training will focus on developing their sailing and racing skills and building confidence on the racecourse.

Developing and progressing

Sailors will work on the skills and knowledge appropriate to their experience and goals. This may include boat handling, sailing technique, rigging and boat setup, race preparation, starting, rules, tactics and race strategy.

Newer sailors will focus on developing the fundamentals and becoming confident and independent in their boat. Sailors with more experience will continue to develop their racing skills and knowledge.

Regular Club racing is encouraged as an important part of developing sailing skills and confidence.

Getting the most from the program

Sailing skills develop through practice and time on the water. Regular participation gives sailors the best opportunity to build their skills, develop confidence and progress throughout the season.

We understand that sometimes sailors can't attend every session. If they miss sessions, their progress may simply take a little longer.

Parents are part of the program

Youth sailing is a team effort, and we ask parents and guardians to get involved throughout the season. This may include helping with launching and recovery, setting up and packing down equipment, tower duty, race management or supporting groups.

You don't need to be an experienced sailor to help. We'll provide guidance and support for the roles you undertake.

Parent volunteer requirements

Parents and guardians of participants are requested to obtain a Working With Children Check (WWCC) and list Blairgowrie Yacht Squadron as their volunteer organisation.

If you need help understanding the requirements or have questions about volunteering, our Sailing Office team is happy to help.

What to bring

Sailors should come prepared for an active day on the water and bring suitable sailing clothing, including their own well-fitting lifejacket, a wetsuit or other warm clothing, secure footwear that can be worn in the water, a hat, sunscreen, water and snacks.

A dinghy sailing smock/spray jacket, dinghy boots, rash top and thermal top are also recommended.

Please check the confirmation email for the full list of items to bring.

Registration and questions

Please register using the sailor's details.

If you're unsure whether Youth Sail Training is right for your sailor, have questions about the boat requirements, or would like to know more about the program or volunteering, please contact the BYS Sailing Office. We're happy to help you find the right starting point.

Email: sailing@bys.asn.au
Phone: 03 5925 9600 ext 1