WASZP is delighted to share that the RYA has officially named the WASZP as the first-ever RYA Endorsed Class, following the introduction of its updated Class Association Recognition Policy. This milestone highlights the continued growth and impact of the class within youth and high-performance sailing.

The RYA’s new Endorsed classification is designed to broaden the opportunities available to young sailors and to support the organisation’s long-term ambition of keeping people engaged in the sport—its “Racing for Life” vision. Endorsed classes complement traditional Youth Recognised classes by providing modern, alternative pathways for skill development and sustained participation.

A class aligned with the future of the sport

The WASZP offers an accessible and exhilarating entry point into high-performance foiling. Its strong global community, vibrant youth scene and emphasis on coachable skill progression reflect the direction in which modern sailing is evolving.

As part of the endorsement process, the UK WASZP Class Association demonstrated key criteria within the RYA framework, including strong governance, high-quality and accessible training, and excellent youth engagement at events. The endorsement recognises the WASZP’s proven ability to support young sailors as they develop within a wide range of racing activities.

Statements from the RYA and the class

Chris Atherton, RYA Junior Racing Manager, said:
“We are delighted to welcome the WASZP as our first RYA Endorsed Class. The class offers something exciting and different for young sailors, aligning with our goal to broaden opportunities and keep more people racing for life.”

Dan Goodman, Chair of the UK WASZP Class Association, added:
“I’m very excited that the WASZP has been awarded RYA Endorsed Class status thanks to the hard work of the UK WASZP class committee and the RYA racing committee. This reinforces the WASZP’s status as a fun and exciting high-performance single-handed dinghy for all ages. We’ll be displaying the logo with pride!”

What this endorsement brings

Through this new status, the WASZP class will receive:

• Access to RYA coach development support
• Signposting and visibility within the British Sailing Pathway
• Involvement in British Sailing Pathway stakeholder activities

For the global WASZP community, this recognition reinforces the class’s position as a leading, progressive pathway for young sailors and highlights the strength of national associations working to grow the sport.