Kingston, December 18, 2024 – Sail Canada and Sail Manitoba are pleased to announce the establishment of a new National Training Centre – Prairie Region at Gimli Yacht Club.
The National Training Centre – Prairie Region will become a centre of excellence in sailing to focus on developing a sustainable regional pipeline of high-performance athletes, coaches and officials from Manitoba, Saskatchewan and Alberta alike.
Long-term plans for the National Training Centre – Prairie Region include the implementation of structured training programs that cater to various skill levels, ensuring that all athletes have access to the resources they need to excel. The centre will also be used to develop aspiring competitive coaches who will get the opportunity to be mentored by regional and national High Performance Coaches.
By fostering collaboration among athletes from different provinces, the National Training Centre – Prairie Region aims to build a strong community of sailors who can compete at both national and international levels. In addition, the centre will seek to establish partnerships with regional sailing clubs and organizations to enhance community engagement and support.
“Sail Canada, Sail Manitoba and neighbouring provinces are committed to creating an environment that supports long-term athletic development and encourages participation in sailing across all age groups”, said Ryan Kelly, Sail Canada’s Chief Executive Officer. “We’re excited about the long-term impact this initiative will have on high performance sailing in the region.”
“Located at Gimli Yacht Club, on the shores of Lake Winnipeg – the 10th largest freshwater lake in the world, and often called the ‘Prairie Ocean’ -, the National Training Centre – Prairie Region is dedicated to empowering athletes to achieve excellence”, said Eric Turner, President of Sail Manitoba. “Through expert training, innovative programs, and a commitment to growth, we cultivate talent and inspire success, shaping the future of sport in our region and beyond.”
About Sail Canada
Established in 1931, Sail Canada is the national governing body for the sport of sailing in the country. Sail Canada is a leading international sailing nation, proud of its world class athletes, lifelong participants and inclusive culture. The organization and its members are committed to excellence by developing and training its leaders, athletes, sailors, instructors, coaches and officials. With the valued support from our partners, the Provincial Sailing Associations and our member clubs, schools, organizations and stakeholders, sailing is promoted in all its forms. By setting standards and delivering programs from home pond to podium for Canadians of all ages and abilities, from dinghies to keelboats, cruising to navigation, windsurfing to powerboating and accessible sailing, Sail Canada sets sail for all, sail to win and sail for life.
A sport in the Olympic program since the first Games in 1896, except in 1904, the pursuit of success in these Games is what fuels the focus of Sail Canada as Canadian athletes have so far achieved nine Olympic and five Paralympic medals.
