The United Kingdom Sailing Academy (UKSA) are looking for fit, enthusiastic young sailors aged between 18 and 25 years to take part in the Yacht Racing Academy’s free crew selection days.

The selection will take place in Cowes, Isle of Wight on 24¬-25 March and 31 March- April 2007. Successful candidates will be invited to return for the Academy’s two-week training camp commencing on the 1 April which aims to develop individual talent within a team environment, creating two racing crews for the Academy’s Farr 52 racing yachts, Bear of Britain and Chernikeeff 2 for the 2007 racing season.

The Yacht Racing Academy aims to produce world class team racers of the future through training and development, by providing opportunity to young people from all backgrounds, giving those who would not normally get the chance to race large yachts the opportunity to grow and develop their sailing knowledge, skills and personality.

Those who successfully make it through the selection stage will take part in two weeks of intensive training at UKSA. With a focus on fitness, sailing skills and race tactics, candidates will prepare to take part in over ten sailing events throughout the season starting with the Red Funnel Easter Regatta. It is hoped that the highlight of the Yacht Racing Academy’s year will be competing in the Vice Admiral’s Cup Regatta, an opportunity to showcase the young talent developed within the Academy.

Yacht Racing Academy Manager Ben Willows said: “We are looking for highly motivated individuals who thrive on working in a team environment. Ideally I would like candidates with a reasonable level of fitness and some sailing experience, whether it is dinghy club racing or cruising on larger boats. We also ask crews to commit to attend regattas, events and training sessions throughout the 2007 racing season. There is no cost to those taking part thanks to the generosity of the Yacht Racing Academy’s President Peter Harrison, Bear of Britain’s new owner Andrew Palmer and UKSA’s charitable endeavours.

To apply to take part in the 2007 selection days visit www.yachtracingacademy.org and complete the application form or contact Ben Willows of UKSA on 01983 294941 for more information.