Applications open for 2020 US Etchells Youth Team

An initiative within the North American Etchells Class to increase awareness and participation has led to the fourth round of applications to join the US Etchells Youth Team. Established in 2017, the program has shown great potential for attracting youth sailors into the Etchells fleet.

The US Etchells Youth Team has several competitive boats available to youth sailors selected for the program, provides logistical and financial support for participation in sponsored events, and offers opportunities to develop the team’s skills and teamwork.

Team members are expected to participate actively in training and racing events, contribute to logistical efforts associated with the program, and assist with fundraising efforts. Applicants shall not be older than 29 years as of January 1st, 2020.

Among the highlights on the schedule is the Olin Stephens Trophy, an annual international challenge between the US and British youth teams, which this year may extend to include a newly-formed Australian youth team. Below is the tentative regatta schedule for the 2020 season:

April 24-26: US National Championship – San Diego Yacht Club; San Diego, CA
May 16-17: Orca Bowl – San Diego Yacht Club; San Diego, CA
Dates TBD: Gertrude Cup or Cowes Week; Cowes, UK
July 24-26: Atlantic Coast Championship – Corinthian Yacht Club; Marblehead, MA
Aug 22-23: New York Yacht Club One Design Regatta – New York Yacht Club; Newport, RI Sept 25-27: North American Championship – Shelter Island Yacht Club; Shelter Island, NY
Nov 21-28: World Championship – Royal Perth Yacht Club; Fremantle, Australia
Dec 12-13: Louis Piana Cup – Biscayne Bay Yacht Club; Miami, FL
Jan 9-10 2021: Sid Doren Memorial – Biscayne Bay Yacht Club; Miami, FL
Jan 30-31 2021: Florida State Championship – Biscayne Bay Yacht Club; Miami, FL
Feb 26-28 2021: Midwinters East – Biscayne Bay Yacht Club; Miami, FL
Dates TBD: Coral Reef Cup – Coral Reef Yacht Club; Miami, FL

The Team will also have several training sessions in addition to the regatta schedule. The Selection Committee comprised of Steve Benjamin, Senet Bischoff, and Michael Gavin intends to assist the Team in securing funding for logistics and gear to ensure the Team will continue to compete at the highest level.

Applications must include a sailing resume, contact information, availability (starting in April), birthdate, height, weight, and a statement of how participation in the Youth Challenge will contribute to your development as a competitive sailor. The US Etchells Youth Team will be selected from applications received before April 3.

Submit application to: USEYT20@gmail.com.