A milestone moment for the WASZP Class – WICA is born
by WASZP class 10 Jun 11:35 BST
The WASZP Fleet at the starting line of the 2026 WASZP Games © Down Under Sail / WASZP
Early June marked a significant milestone in the history of the WASZP Class with the official formation of the WASZP International Class Association (WICA).
This represents the beginning of an exciting new chapter as the class continues its evolution from a manufacturer-supported class to a truly sailor-led international organisation.
Representatives from North America, Asia Pacific and many countries across Europe, including the Nordic nations, worked cooperatively over many months to develop the foundations of WICA and a new Constitution for the association. Their efforts reflect both the international reach of the class and a shared commitment to building a strong and sustainable future for WASZP sailors around the world.
During the meeting, the representatives formally approved the new WICA Constitution, establishing the governance framework that will guide the class through this next phase of development and ensure sailors have a direct voice in its future.
Jervis Tilly has been confirmed as the inaugural President of WICA.
The establishment of WICA is the result of years of dedication, collaboration and belief from sailors, volunteers, class leaders and supporters around the world. It reflects the maturity and strength of the WASZP community and provides a solid foundation for the next phase of growth, participation and global development. Most importantly, it ensures that the future direction of the class will be guided by the sailors who race, support and champion it every day.
This step also brings the WASZP Class closer to achieving recognition from World Sailing.
The formation of WICA provides the independent international structure expected of a modern global class and further strengthens the foundations for long-term success on the world stage.
Importantly, this transition would not be possible without the ongoing commitment and support of KA Sail. While WICA will progressively assume responsibility as the governing body for the class, KA Sail will continue to provide significant financial support, expertise and operational assistance throughout the transition period. This partnership ensures continuity, stability and confidence as the class moves into its next phase of development.
Commenting on the significance of the milestone, WASZP Founder Andrew McDougall said:
"When we launched the WASZP, the goal was simple: make foiling accessible to more sailors. Seeing the class grow into a truly global community and now establish its own international class association is incredibly rewarding. This is an important milestone and a testament to the passion and commitment of WASZP sailors around the world."
Incoming WICA President Jervis Tilly added:
"WICA has been created by sailors, for sailors. Our role is to protect what makes the WASZP special while supporting continued growth around the world. We have an incredible foundation to build on, and I look forward to working with our members, volunteers and partners as we shape the next chapter of the class together."
To everyone who has contributed to this journey so far, thank you. The WASZP story has always been driven by an incredible community, and with WICA now officially established, the future has never looked brighter.
Over the coming weeks and months, further updates will be shared as WICA continues its establishment phase, including the formation of Executive and Technical Committees and other opportunities for sailors to become involved.
One of the core objectives of WICA is to ensure sailors have an even stronger voice in shaping the future of the class, and we encourage members from around the world to contribute their ideas, expertise and enthusiasm as this exciting new chapter unfolds.
Next Chapter: Recruiting a New WASZP Class Manager
To underpin the evolution, WICA is on the hunt for a new WASZP Class Manager.
This is a unique opportunity to help shape the future of one of the world's most exciting sailing classes, working alongside the WICA executives with sailors, organisers, partners and volunteers to support continued growth around the globe.
We encourage members of the WASZP community, and anyone in their wider networks who may be a great fit, to review the position description and consider applying.