Australian Sailing strengthens Wingfoil in Performance Pathways Pre-Nationals Camp
by Lisa Darmanin / Australian Sailing Team 22 Oct 05:48 BST
6-8 December 2026
Emma Webb at Queensland Youth Sail © Down Under Sail
The Australian Sailing High Performance Pathway program is inviting Wingfoil athletes to fine-tune their racing skills ahead of the Wingfoil Nationals, with Expressions of Interest now open for a pre-Nationals camp at the Royal Queensland Yacht Squadron (RQYS) this December.
Running from 6th through to the 8th December, the three-day camp will be led by Australian Sailing Performance Pathways Coach (Queensland) Mitch Pearson, with support from RQYS foiling coaches ahead of the National Championships commencing on the 10th December.
Open to sailors entered in the Formula, Open or Youth classes at the nationals, the camp will provide participants with an opportunity to refine their racing techniques, build confidence and prepare for competition in a high-performance training environment.
A key focus will be the Wingfoil class rabbit start, which will be used in the marathon qualification races, giving sailors an opportunity to develop their understanding of the format ahead of the championships.
Australian Sailing is also taking a significant step towards strengthening the Wingfoil pathway in Australia. The High Performance program will be utilising its Australian Institute of Sport (AIS) approved Athlete Assessment and Categorisation Guidelines to categorise Wingfoil athletes in 2027, up to the 'Developing' level. The initiative will provide greater structure to the development pathway for Australian Wingfoil athletes as the sport continues to progress towards potential Olympic inclusion.
A decision is expected on Wingfoil's inclusion in the Brisbane 2032 Olympic Games at the World Sailing Annual Conference in November 2026.
Wingfoil athletes interested in attending the Pre Nationals camp must submit an Expression of Interest by close of business on 27th November via www.sailing.org.au/events/385758
For further information about the camp or Wingfoil categorisation, contact Australian Sailing Performance Pathways Coach Mitch Pearson at .