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Three people wearing blue caps are sailing a small white sailboat on choppy water near a shoreline with trees and houses visible in the background under a clear sky.

International Lightning Class Boat Grant Program Seeking Applications for 2026!

byTom Sitzmann

International Lightning Class Association

For Immediate Release
Additional Information: Laura Jeffers, Executive Secretary
January 5, 2026
Tarpon Springs, Florida

Squarest Deal Ever?  And it’s Free!

The International Lightning Class Boat Grant Program had another amazing year in 2025. We received outstanding applications from young sailors eager to compete in one of the strongest fleets in one design sailing. We’re looking to build on that momentum for the 2026 sailing season! That’s where you come in!

The Lightning Class will again provide boats to several promising young sailing teams– like you! If you’re over 19, consider this your personal invitation: apply!

You’ll get the best equipment. Race-winning boats with new sails, new rigging, covers and an assigned Lightning Class mentor to help you get to the front. In the boat park you’ll become part of a group that genuinely wants you to do your best and enjoy every weekend! On the water, those same people will do all in their power to keep you behind them. Would you want it any other way?

Three people wearing blue caps are sailing a small white sailboat on choppy water near a shoreline with trees and houses visible in the background under a clear sky.

“The Lightning Boat Grant has been an incredible opportunity for my team and me to continue racing at a high level after finishing college sailing. I am incredibly grateful to have been given the opportunity to race a brand-new Lightning for the year and look forward to remaining part of the fleet in the future.” – Axel Stordahl, 2024 College of Charleston, 2025 recipient

“The program is such an important opportunity for younger sailors to get involved, build connections, and see what makes this fleet so special. Sailing a grant boat has given me the chance to experience this community firsthand, and it’s easy to see why so many people stay in the class for life.” – Will Murray, 2024 Hobart, 2025 recipient, 2025 U32 Invitational Champion

Did we mention the boat is free?

The program covers all entry fees and many travel expenses too. The Lightning Class has been a vital experience for many of the best racers in the World. Could you use an experience like that?

Join us and apply before the January 22, 2026 deadline! 

https://www.lightningclass.org/boatgrant

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