This September, the SSL Training Centre has moved from Europe to Africa, with a new development programme taking place in the Seychelles.
Four new SSL teams have arrived on the beautiful island of Mahé, Victoria, to train under the guidance of professional coaches and experienced sailors. The programme is led by Dutch coach Rigo de Nijs, who brings massive coaching experience, having been involved in six Olympic campaigns and two Volvo Ocean Races, as well as Allan Julie, captain of SSL Team Seychelles, together with team members Joshua Allcorn and Curtis Allcorn.
During the first part of the training programme, SSL welcomed teams from Senegal and Madagascar. The sailors train twice a day, working on their sailing skills and improving their knowledge of boat preparation, weather, tactics and teamwork.
The training sessions are held on Fareast 28 yachts, with the long-term goal of preparing the teams to sail the SSL47 yachts next year.
The main goal of the project is to support emerging sailing nations and help develop the sport across Africa. But the programme is about more than sailing skills. It is also about building new teams, strengthening sailing communities and creating opportunities for nations to race against nations. By developing the sport on every continent, SSL aims to grow a global sailing community and bring more nations together on the racecourse.
