ILCAVic Transition Solidarity Program

The VLA has designed and implemented a specific program to help transition young sailors from junior classes to the Laser 4.7. Called the VLA 4.7 Solidarity Program, this page is dedicated to providing information to both parents and sailors.

The VLA Youth Solidarity program is supported and run by the VLA committee. For more information about the program or support for new sailors and parents please email vlasolidarity@gmail.com

2025 Solidarity Squad announced.

ILCA Oceania is delighted to announce the following sailors have been selected by their district as the Solidarity representative for 2025.

2023 Solidarity group joined at the coaches briefing by World & Olympic champ Matt Wearn.

This is the third year for our Solidarity event & will held in Queensland during the 2025 ILCA Open & Youth Championships 1-8 January RQYS

Solidarity is about encouraging young female sailors (age between 13 & 16 yrs) to participate in a world class sailing championship. It is not about winning; the hope is that this experience will ignite a passion for the sport & that they will return to their clubs as enthusiastic ambassadors.

We know from feedback that most of the previous groups are still engaged with the ILCA’s. Some have transitioned to the ILCA 6 and most have participated in subsequent State & National events.

The participants receive a free entry to the championship & social events. Charter boats & coaching are also provided. This year we are delighted to have the support of Australian Sailing who will be supplying a squad coach for the girls. The coach will provide on water coaching plus briefings on shore.

2024 Solidarity ILCA 4 fleet lined up at Adelaide Sailing club waiting for the signal to leave the beach.

More information including the selection criteria is here

Transitioning to the ILCA4 - time to have fun and go fast!

A common comment from young girls and boys transitioning to the Laser 4.7 is OMG, why didn’t I do this earlier!!?? Whether you currently sail an Opti, Minnow, Open Bic, Hobie Hawk or are new to sailing, the Laser 4.7 is the only youth transition boat with large numbers of like-minded teenagers having a blast. Whether on the water or off the water, sailing a 4.7 is fun and rather cool.