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Yachting New Zealand is calling for expressions of interest for the second intake of its Starling Girls Accelerator programme, with up to 14 spots available for promising young female sailors looking to take the next step in their sailing development.
The initiative, part of Yachting New Zealand’s women and girls in sailing strategy, follows the success of the inaugural programme last season. It’s designed to support and inspire female sailors who are passionate about racing, eager to improve, and aiming to progress through the national youth performance pathway.
"This programme is all about building confident, connected female sailors who love racing, value each other, and are ready for what's next,” said Sam Mackay, Yachting New Zealand’s high performance operations and youth programme manager.
Running from July 2025 through to May 2026, the one-year programme combines on-water training, coaching at key regattas, online learning, and mentoring. Sailors will also get the chance to work with specialists from the Starling class, NZL Sailing Team members and coaches, and support staff from High Performance Sport New Zealand.
Key programme content includes boat speed, boat-handling, strategy, physical development, racing under pressure, rules, and communication. There will also be opportunities to explore other disciplines such as wingfoiling and double-handed sailing.
“This is a fun, challenging and meaningful programme that helps these girls develop both on and off the water,” Mackay said.
Applicants must be under 18, currently racing in the Starling class, and committed to campaigning through the 2026 Starling national championships. The programme is also geared to prepare sailors to transition into youth classes like the ILCA 6, 29er, 420, or iQFOiL within 12 months.
Selections will be based on commitment, potential, regional diversity, and alignment with the youth high-performance pathway. The process includes an online application and one-on-one interviews with the programme coach and Mackay.
For full details and to apply, click here.
