New to ILCA UK?
Overview of what ILCA UK does
The ILCA Dinghy (previously Laser) is the most popular one design across the world. In the UK, the ILCA Class Association is the ILCA UK, recognised by the RYA.
In Europe, the Class is managed by EurILCA and across the World, the International Laser Class Association (ILCA) is the governing body recognised by World Sailing. The ILCA is split into three Classes with different rigs:
- ILCA4 (previously Laser 4.7)
- ILCA6 (previously Laser Radial)
- ILCA7 (previously Laser Standard)
ILCA UK organises ILCA racing and training events across the UK. The Events Calendar is regularly updated.
Racing for the ILCA in the UK
Most sailing clubs will have several ILCAs (previously Lasers) in their dinghy parks. They are often seen taking part in races organised by the clubs.
ILCA UK promote Grand Prix events around the country. These are fun, relaxed events, often with some training also included.
ILCA UK organises Masters regattas across the UK for sailors aged 30 or older.
ILCA UK organises the ILCA UK Youth Series. This is a rolling series of events in each region.
ILCA UK organises 6 National Opens/ Qualifiers. These are the events where we aim to put on the best quality racing in our calendar. 3 are usually scheduled in the Spring and 3 in the Autumn. These are the main events used to qualify our senior and youth sailors for their European & World Championships.
ILCA UK also organise National Championships and Inland National Championships. The goal at these events is maximum participation and quality racing.
ILCA UK runs training on a regular basis, often in collaboration with the ASC Performance Academy (Andrew Simpson Centres) and/or British Youth Sailing (RYA).
Our Open Training and National Training is very popular, we are fortunate to have access to high-level ILCA coaches. Training events are added to the ILCA UK calendar and these popular days are usually over-subscribed. Whilst we make every effort to organise sufficient ribs and coaches for larger numbers, sometimes we cannot accommodate everyone, so do not delay in booking if you know you want to attend.
In addition the RYA also organise ILCA training through British Youth Sailing (BYS):-
Junior - ILCA4
Details of the BYS Regional Training Groups (RTGs) for ILCA4 sailors are posted on their website. https://www.rya.org.uk/racing/british-youth-sailing/regional-training-groups
Youth - ILCA6
British Youth Sailing organise Performance Squads and Summer Teams for Youth sailors in the ILCA6. https://www.rya.org.uk/racing/british-youth-sailing
Transition - ILCA6 (female), ILCA7 (male)
The BYS Transition project is designed to help sailors transition from Youth to Olympic sailing.
https://www.rya.org.uk/racing/british-youth-sailing/transition/project-info
The ILCA (previously Laser) is governed by strict one design equipment rules. The recent change from Laser to ILCA in 2019 has led to some confusion. We urge caution when buying an ILCA for racing in ILCA UK and RYA events, you will only be able to sail with ILCA Class Legal equipment. We have extensive articles on the ILCA UK website on what is ILCA Class Legal equipment. To be clear, there are alternative brands selling replica equipment, sometimes branded “Laser”. This equipment is not necessarily compliant with the ILCA one design class rules. Take care and seek advice if unsure.
The ILCA UK Committee is an experienced group standing by to assist. Please contact the relevant representative with your questions.
