Performance Academy is delighted to share that two of our regular sailors have been named in the 16-strong British Sailing Youth Team heading to the Youth Sailing World Championships in Vilamoura, Portugal this December.

Jessica Powell (Draycote Water SC) and Sophie Clark (Andrew Simpson Centre Portsmouth) have earned their places in the prestigious squad, representing years of their hard work, dedication and progress through RYA Recognised Classes and the Performance Academy pathways.

Jessica Powell (ILCA 6) is a long-standing member of the Performance Academy family. Jess secured her spot in the ILCA 6 after a breakthrough season that included winning the U17 Female title at the 2025 ILCA 6 UK Nationals.

Jess described her Youth Worlds call-up as “amazing”, as she’s been balancing top-level racing with her GCSE year. She’s now looking forward to testing herself against the world’s best in Portugal.

Sophie Clark (iQFOiL) is very much a Performance Academy through-and-through sailor, having developed exclusively through the Performance Academy at Andrew Simpson Centre Portsmouth. Her dedication to the iQFOiL class has seen her rapidly make major strides, earning recognition at national level and now her first Youth Worlds selection.

“Competing at this level will push me forwards technically and mentally, giving me confidence for future international competitions,” Sophie said.

Out of just 16 young sailors chosen to represent the British Sailing Youth Team this year, two are Performance Academy athletes. Their selection is a huge achievement for both Jess and Sophie, as well as the entire PA community of coaches, clubs, and teammates who have helped support their journeys.

The Youth Worlds are seen as the pinnacle of the youth sailing pathway, and the likes of 4-time Olympic Gold Medallist and ASF Trustee Sir Ben Ainslie, once stood where Jess and Sophie are now.

The Performance Academy is proud to celebrate two of its own taking this important step on the international stage.