Regatta to celebrate young sailors this Youth Day

Whereas - in the past - only youngsters were invited to take part in the Youth Regatta, and only one specific design of boat (L26) was allowed to enter the race, resulting in only a few boat entries - this year, the format has evolved to incorporate people of all ages and various boats, thereby considerably growing the event and boasting 19 yacht entries as opposed to an average of seven boats in previous years.

Hilary Ackermann, sailing events manager at RCYC, explains: "This year I sat down with our Sailing Academy and we decided to open the event to all club boats and even boats from other clubs, increase boat entries and stipulate they have to have a minimum three youth members under the age of 28 to sail. This has been fantastic for the event and all members are very excited. By celebrating our youth, we are celebrating our future."

Having both eager youngsters as well as experienced sailors on board together this year symbolises unity and creates an opportunity for engagement. There is so much that the generations can learn from one another, and what better way to encourage cooperation than at sea?

Since 2017, SAIMI has been collaborating with the RCYC and its Sailing Academy in an effort to encourage the training of youth and the creation of jobs in the maritime industry.

The Youth Regatta will see the contestants leaving the yacht club marina depart into Table Bay at 11am on Saturday and 9am on Sunday.