The 2026 ZHIK Youth Sail SA brought together 54 young sailors for two days of championship racing, followed by a further two days of coaching and development, with 41 sailors taking part in the coaching clinic from 26th September to 29th September. 

Sailors competed across six classes: International 420, ILCA 4, ILCA 6, International Cadet, Optimist Open and Optimist Intermediate. The fleets provided competitive racing and valuable experience for sailors at a range of stages in their development. 

The Optimist Green Fleet also had the opportunity to take part in a dedicated coaching clinic with Brett Yardley, focusing on building confidence, improving boat handling and developing the fundamentals needed as young sailors progress into racing. 

Following the two-day Youth Championships, South Australian Performance Coach Luke Allison led a two-day coaching clinic for 41 sailors. The program provided an opportunity for sailors to build on their championship experience, refine their skills and gain valuable coaching in a focused training environment. 

The event also included dedicated coach development sessions for South Australian coaches. These sessions provided an opportunity for coaches to upskill and develop their coaching capabilities, supporting the continued delivery of quality youth sailing programs across South Australia. 

A highlight of the event was the opportunity for sailors to hear directly from athletes who have experienced the pathway to the highest level of the sport. 

2024 Paris Olympian Rhiannan Brown joined the sailors for the event BBQ and shared her journey to becoming an Olympic sailor. Rhiannan spoke openly about her experiences, the pathway to the Olympic Games and what comes next as she sets her sights on the road to LA 2028. Her story provided an inspiring insight into the commitment, challenges and opportunities that come with pursuing an Olympic sailing campaign. 

Sailors also heard from International 420 Youth World sailors Fraser Baker and Will Gaylard, who shared their experiences as members of the Australian Youth Team and their journey to Vilamoura, Portugal, for the 2025 World Sailing Youth World Championships. 

The athlete presentations provided an important connection between the sailors competing at Youth Sail SA and those who have progressed through the pathway onto the national and international stage. 

Spirit of S.A.I.L.I.N.GAward proudly sponsored by Ronstan was awarded to Huxley Heritage and Natalie Griffin 

The success of the 2026 ZHIK Youth Sail SA was made possible through the commitment of a large team of volunteers and officials. A special thank you goes to Brighton & Seacliff Yacht Club for hosting the event and providing an excellent venue for both the championships and coaching program. 

Thank you also to PRO/NRO Malcolm Hughes, RO Phil Scapens and the Jury of Wayne Thompson, Arnold, Mikayla Thompson and Theresa Morton for their expertise and commitment throughout the event. 

Most importantly, congratulations to all 54 sailors who competed in the Youth Championships and to the 41 sailors who continued their development through the coaching clinic. The enthusiasm, sportsmanship and determination shown across the fleets made the event a great celebration of youth sailing in South Australia. 

With four days of racing, coaching, athlete engagement and coach development, the 2026 ZHIK Youth Sail SA provided a valuable platform for sailors and coaches alike, helping to strengthen the pathway and support the continued growth of youth sailing across South Australia. 

A thank you to ZHIK, Brighton & Seacliff Yacht Club, officials, coaches, volunteers, parents and sailors for helping make the 2026 ZHIK Youth Sail SA a success. 

Event Information HERE 

Full List of Results HERE