Seldén Masts has announced a partnership with the International 470 Class Association, built around equipment prizes at the 470 World, European, and Junior Championships.
The deal targets sailor development, with prizes intended to support promising athletes and teams and to help competitors from emerging sailing nations access high-quality gear. The Class Association will allocate the awards at its discretion, directing support where it can have the greatest developmental impact.
Steve Norbury, Managing Director of Seldén Masts UK, pointed to the class's record of producing top-level sailors. "Many of the world's best sailors have spent important years of their career in the 470. We are delighted to support the class and its athletes through this partnership."
Broadening access sits at the centre of the programme. "We are particularly excited about working with the class to support young sailors and competitors from emerging sailing nations," Norbury said, "helping them access the equipment and opportunities needed to fulfil their potential."
470 Class President Igor Marenić welcomed the announcement, pointing to the fit with the class's own objectives. "The equipment awards will be a significant benefit for athletes and nations where access to high-performance equipment can make a genuine difference. Together with Seldén, we look forward to creating opportunities that help strengthen and grow the global 470 community."
Beyond the equipment prizes, the two organisations will work together on promotional and technical initiatives throughout the year, sharing knowledge and publishing success stories from within the international 470 community.
The 470 is active in more than 60 countries and carries a distinguished Olympic history. The Seldén partnership puts tangible resources behind the next generation of sailors pushing towards the top of the class and beyond.
