Lightning Class Boat Grant Program calls for applications

by Laura Jeffers on 2 Dec 2011 The International Lightning Class Association is now accepting applications for the ILCA Boat Grant Program for the 2012 season. Now entering its sixth season with dozens of Boat Grant alumni, the program offers a few select teams the chance to sail a race-ready boat for a season in one of the strongest one-design classes in North America.

Each team will be provided with a championship ready Lightning, competitive sails and equipment, a mentor, and funds to cover some of the sailing expenses for the 2012 summer racing season. This is a unique opportunity for younger sailors to experience Lightning sailing at its best. The Lightning, a 19-foot trailerable sloop, has 70+ years of attracting some of the best and brightest. The Boat Grant program is designed to open the door to the next generation of sailors.

Boat Grant Co-founder Allan Terhune explains 'One of the key elements of the program is the involvement of the class membership. They've been very supportive of the young teams over the past five seasons. The ILCA has a strong history of supporting and encouraging young sailors' The Class's strong International presence also assures the Boat Grant teams a chance to compete against athletes from around the world.

'The mentor aspect of the program is really the one of the key elements to the success of young sailors who receive the grant' says co-founder Bill Fastiggi. 'We've had a very talented pool of Lightning sailors who volunteer their time to help the grant recipients get up to speed in the boats and also help them learn how to organize their own sailing program.'

Applications and proposals are due on December 31. Each applicant is required to provide sailing resumes, three references with letters of recommendation and include a cover letter explaining why they are the best candidates for the grant. Complete details on how to apply for this grant is found on the ILCA website.

For specific questions or more information about the ILCA grant, contact the ILCA office, or co-chairs Bill Fastiggi or Allan Terhune. Bill Fastiggi - bill(at)vtsailing.com 802-578-5697 | Allan Terhune - allan(at)od.northsails.com 732-644-1051.