Canada Ocean Racing 2026 Pathway Programme for emerging Canadian talent - Open for applications
by Canada Ocean Racing 27 May 21:54 BST
10-12 July 2026
Canada Ocean Racing © Canada Ocean Racing
What if you gave yourself permission to find out what you're capable of?
That question sits at the heart of Canada Ocean Racing. Now, the campaign is open for applications to its 2026 Pathway Programme, a unique initiative designed to help young Canadians discover new opportunities in offshore racing and the wider sport.
Canada Ocean Racing will select six Canadians aged 18-25 to join the team in Collingwood, Ontario, from 10 - 12 July 2026 for an immersive experience alongside skipper and president Scott Shawyer and the wider Canada Ocean Racing team.
The programme offers successful applicants the chance to gain hands-on experience with the team's foiling IMOCA 60 race boat, EMIRA IV, while learning about the many different pathways into the sport and industry.
Importantly, the programme is not only aimed at aspiring sailors.
While participants will experience the world of offshore racing first-hand, Canada Ocean Racing is also encouraging applications from young people interested in communications, engineering, logistics, operations, technology, partnerships and other areas that support a modern racing team.
Scott Shawyer's own journey into offshore racing did not follow a traditional route. Rather than growing up in the sport, he chose to pursue a goal that felt bigger than himself and committed to finding out what he was capable of, one step at a time.
Through the Pathway Programme, Canada Ocean Racing is giving others the opportunity to do the same.
The programme includes:
- Two days with Scott Shawyer and the Canada Ocean Racing team
- Hands-on experience aboard EMIRA IV, the team's foiling IMOCA race boat
- Insight into career opportunities in offshore sailing and high-performance sport
- Transfers from Toronto airport, accommodation and meals included*
*If travel costs are a barrier, additional support may be available.
To apply, candidates should send their age, location and a short note explaining why they would like to participate to:
Application deadline: 15 June 2026
Successful applicants will be notified by: 22 June 2026