A1R Academy

What is the A1R Academy?

The A1R Academy is a new high-performance initiative created and managed by America One Racing to help exceptional emerging athletes take a deliberate next step toward the highest levels of sailing. Positioned between the Foiling Pipeline and Project Podium, the Academy provides the focused support, clear direction and competitive experience needed to turn proven potential into measurable progress.

A Springboard, Not a Destination

Some of America’s most promising sailors reach a stage where broad development is no longer enough, but a full professional opportunity or Olympic campaign is not yet within reach. Without the right help at this critical point, progress can stall and talent can be lost. The Academy is designed to fill that gap.

Academy athletes are selected based on demonstrated ability, commitment, coachability and a realistic opportunity to reach an ambitious goal with the right support. Continued participation depends on growth, performance and sustained commitment. Success is not measured by how long an athlete remains in the Academy, but by whether that athlete is ready for what comes next.

Individual Plans, Measurable Progress

Every Academy athlete works with A1R to create a development plan built around a specific goal, with clear expectations and measures of progress. Based on individual needs, support may include advanced coaching, technical training, sports science, mentorship, campaign planning, budgeting, targeted competition in the United States and abroad, and opportunities to train alongside Project Podium athletes.

Select grants are provided by the Sailing Foundation of New York and the Schoonmaker Foundation, helping athletes access the resources and competition their plans require. Athletes are also expected to take increasing responsibility for their progress by setting priorities, managing time and funding, using performance data and making informed decisions about their future.

For some, the next step may be Project Podium and an Olympic campaign for 2032 or beyond. For others, it may be a world championship, SailGP, the America’s Cup, professional racing, or a technical or leadership role within the sport. The Academy is built to ensure that exceptional American sailing talent receives timely support and that its future is not left to chance.

Donate to Support the A1R Academy

The Inaugural A1R Academy Athletes

Athlete Account Application

Interested in raising funds through SFNY?

Download and complete the application form below
Email the completed form to TLStark@msn.com with :cc to SFNYcomms@gmail.com
If you have questions, get in touch here.

Download Application Form

Respectfully, donation checks must be made out to the Sailing Foundation of New York in order to be processed. Donation directions should be designated in the memo line.