Opportunity of a lifetime: SailGP inspiring next generation of sailing stars in Sydney

SailGP’s Inspire initiative is returning ahead of the Australia Sail Grand Prix, giving some keen young sailing stars from around NSW the chance to work with SailGP stars. Here’s why it is such a big deal.

SAILGP is giving 39 young Australians a terrific opportunity to work alongside world-class sailors through the Adopt-a-Club program.

The program is a part of the SailGP Inspire initiative which encourages diversity and inclusivity within the sport of sailing, as well as expanding opportunities for involvement from young ages.

It is also a terrific opportunity to promote the upcoming KPMG Australia Sail Grand Prix, which will be taking place on Sydney waters on the 18th and 19th of February.

As a part of the Adopt-a-Club program, all nine competing nations within SailGP will be paired with local sailing clubs from New South Wales, two of which are from the Illawarra region.

Australia SailGP Team driver and CEO Tom Slingsby said: “SailGP’s Adopt-a-Club program was a roaring success when it was introduced in Season Two of SailGP.

Australia SailGP Team helmed by Tom Slingsby in action on Race Day 1. Australia Sail Grand Prix presented by KPMG. 17 December 2021. Photo: Phil Hillyard for SailGP.

“We’re excited to be partnering with Woollahra Sailing Club once again for the initiative.

“As we approach our home event in Sydney, it’s a great way to engage local communities, showcase this incredible sport and hopefully inspire SailGP athletes of the future.”

Up-and-coming sailors in the SailGP Inspire program play with remote control boats ahead of Sydney SailGP, Event 1 Season 2 in Sydney Harbour, Sydney, Australia. 27 February 2020. Photo: Thomas Lovelock for SailGP.

Two club pairings will take place in the Illawarra and south coast area.

Team Denmark will be paired with Oak Flats Sailing Club, while team New Zealand will be paired with Vincentia Sailing Club.

The full list of Adopt-a-Club pairings can be seen below:

The aim of the program is that through pairing professional sailing teams with everyday sailing clubs, the current generation can inspire a new one, providing industry insights and opening their eyes to potential career pathways with sailing and the marine industry on the whole.

SailGP Inspire is the only program of its kind globally to implement programs within the sport that encourage career pathways in sailing.

Nathan Outteridge, helmsman and CEO of Japan SailGP Tema, speaking to SailGP Inspire kids inside Japan SailGP Team base. Race Day 2. Sydney SailGP, Event 1 Season 2 in Sydney Harbour, Sydney, Australia. 29 February 2020. Photo: Beau Outteridge for SailGP.

Alongside the Adopt-a-Club initiative, Sail GP Inspire will also be welcoming the return of the Inspire Racing and Inspire Careers Programs, which aims to provide genuine racing, careers and learning pathways for the next generation.

Australian Sailing Manager for NSW and the ACT, Emma Humphries, said: “SailGP’s Inspire Program is a fantastic gateway into our wonderful sport and a good way of increasing diversity and accessibility as we approach an exciting time for sailing in the state.”

The Inspire Racing Program will allow 22 young male and female sailors to take part in a once-in-a lifetime opportunity to exhibit their skills and passion for sailing on the iconic Sydney Harbour course.

The Inspire Careers program is set to provide 17 lucky students with the opportunity to work across several areas of the SailGP organisation, including the technical team, hospitality and event management, on-water operations, media and communications, race management, and sustainability.

The hands-on experience will allow the students to experience the thrill and excitement of executing a global sporting event such as SailGP.