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The Programme

The British Keelboat Academy (BKA) is a partnership between UKSA and RYA. The BKA is designed to support young people aged between 18 and 24 in developing the skills needed to take their keelboat yacht racing to the next level, whether that is as a professional or an amateur.

The British Keelboat Academy is split into three programmes depending on experience and future aspirations. The season starts with four winter training weekends based in Weymouth, and then moves to the Solent for the racing season. As a part of the BKA, sailors will get access to Crewsearch, a group with unlimited opportunities to join top UK boats. Will get BKA uniform with discounted waterproofs and technical clothing, discounted professional RYA courses and get taught by some of the top UK coaches.

Key dates (All Programmes):

BKA Introduction(Bath University) Saturday 28th November 2015
BKA Training 1 15th/17th January 2016
BKA Training 2 12th/14th February 2016
BKA Training 3 11th/13th March 2016

Squad sailors can choose from the following programmes:

One Design Programme
The OD programme is aimed at three groups; those starting out in keelboat racing and looking to develop their basic skills and understanding, Match Racers looking to develop skills, meet new teams and gain training and funding towards national and international events; finally those looking to challenge for the international Etchells UK class youth selections trials and the chance to win a fully-funded boat for the year. The programme will not restrict the sailor in to one of the three areas but will actively encourage everyone to challenge themselves across the sport, creating new opportunities.

2016 Events may include (Dates TBC):

CCYC Spring Series
CCYC Bedrock Challenge Cup
RYC Sir Kenneth Preston
RTYC New Cup Major Event
RCYC Etchells Southern
Cowes Week
Etchells Nationals

Inshore Big Boat Programme
The Inshore programme will be aimed at the more experienced keelboat sailors with a couple of seasons of experience racing on a range of keelboats. The programme will use an IRC rated type boat, based in the Hamble, Southampton, and will compete in a number of events throughout the season.

2016 Events TBC

Offshore Programme
The Offshore programme was a new programme in 2015 and is aimed at sailors interested in developing their offshore racing skills. The sailors will be able to plan their own program around the RORC offshore series or the JOG offshore series. There will also be opportunities to join other offshore campaigns throughout the year.

2016 Events TBC

If you are interested in applying, please view our ‘How to Apply’ page.