Creation of the American Youth Sailing Force

June 10, 2012

We are excited to announce the creation of the American Youth Sailing Force, the completely youth-run campaign to compete in the first ever Red Bull Youth America’s Cup on San Francisco Bay, August 2013.

The American Youth Sailing Force (AYSF) was formed for the purpose of representing the United States in the Red Bull Youth America’s Cup. This team, which represents the highest level of youth sailing in America, will prove that with steady determination and dedication, a team of talented young American sailors can be a force to be reckoned with on the international sailing circuit. This group will be an important part of the movement to create an opportunity for young, talented sailors to compete in the highest tiers of competitive sailing, and hopes to maintain an example for other young sailors who wish to sail at the highest level someday. Though it is currently the primary focus for the AYSF, the Youth America’s Cup is not the end of the road for this team. Not only will the team members continue on to compete in future high-profile events, but the partnerships and the foundation that we create will persist to provide equally exciting opportunities to youth sailors.

Historically, youth sailing in America has been planned, organized, and funded by parents. In an effort to not only create a fully youth run and organized team, but also to separate us from our competition in the Youth America’s Cup, the AYSF aims to deliberate all the functions and operations of the team, which include organization, fundraising, and training amongst its youth members. We are the future of sailing, and intend to prove that we can become world-class sailors through our own dedication and determination.

The team is comprised of the best youth sailors from the San Francisco Bay Area and the West Coast. We plan on representing a San Francisco Bay yacht club as well as instituting a rigorous training program there. The team is made up of Ian Andrewes, Even Sjostedt, Josh Larsen, Michael Radziejowski, David Liebenberg, and Tommy Pastalka. Detailed bios of each sailor are located on the website.

Due to the nature of the event, the team is looking for donations and sponsors as well wide media spread in order to make our mission known to all who are potentially interested in supporting it. All information on donations and sponsorships are located on our website.

Please visit our website for full information: www.americanyouthsailingforce.com. Also see our Facebook page, www.facebook.com/AmericanYouthSailingForce.

- AYSF