International 14 Youth Programme
by International 14 class 25 Jul 10:12 BST
James and Gio sailing the International 14 Pamela at Itchenor in 2025 © Robin Nott
2027 will be a special year for the 14 class as it's the 100th anniversary of the first Prince Of Wales Cup. The anniversary POW Cup race will take place as part of a European Championships at Itchenor Sailing Club.
We are expecting 14s from all generations, from vintage boats from the 1920s to modern boats, to take part. 2027 will also see a full calendar of anniversary events - both on and off the water - to celebrate the class's incredible history.
In just 52 weeks the cup will be awarded, this is your opportunity to join the teams competing.
To celebrate this and support youth sailing, the class has agreed to fund up to three teams for the 2027 season. Details are being finalised, sailors should apply as individuals (under 30) or as teams (under 55 combined). Sailors will be expected to test sail with experienced helms in their boat, or in the class boat this year. Boats will then be allocated to Teams. Teams will be expected to make a contribution to the running costs, receive a boat to campaign, and free entry to PoW.
Sailors in the top ten of a windy POW race this year weighed between 60 and 95kgs. Teams weighed between 145 and 190kg. This year has seen a push for young sailors, with several races in trophy weekends being won by rookie crews moving across from the 29er and 49er.
The International 14 is the oldest international class, as a development class it is also one of the newest, incorporating modern developments. The boats are incredibly refined and tailored to their owners. Having said that the development in hull shape has slowed, and with carbon hulls lasting longer than ever 20 year old hulls are able to compete at the top level. The boats to be provided to these youth teams are sister ships to boats that came 7th at the 2025 nationals, or 10th at the 2025 Europeans, very capable of a top six finish in the PoW race in the right hands.
Application process and criteria to be confirmed. Please keep an eye on the Instagram and Facebook pages.