From Regional Racing to the World Stage
A Caribbean high-performance development framework by Andrew Lewis & Niels Broekhuizen. The objective is not to attend the biggest event, it's to arrive prepared to compete.
Progression should be earned
Why the Top 25% Benchmark?
Consistent performance is the clearest indicator of readiness. We use a simple guideline, not a rule, to encourage progression based on readiness rather than aspiration.
Top 25% in Caribbean & Florida
Ready for North American-level competition
Top 25% in North American events
Ready for World Championship-level competition
Top 25% at World Championships
Ready to build a serious international campaign
The Framework
Four Phases of Mastery
Master the Region · Master the Continent · Master the World · Build the Campaign
Level 1
Regional Development
Build international experience and become competitive within the Caribbean and Florida. At this level, exposure and consistency matter more than results.
Recommended events
Level 2
Continental Competitor
Become competitive against the strongest sailors in North America. This is where athletes learn to race for a result.
Recommended events
Level 3
International Competitor
Compete successfully against the world's leading youth sailors and learn how elite athletes prepare.
Recommended events
Level 4
International Campaign & Olympic Pathway
Move from youth development into elite international competition with a structured, funded campaign behind you.
Recommended events
Campaign economics
Plan with Eyes Open
Understanding the financial commitment at each level lets families, sponsors, and federations plan appropriately.
Typical Nassau Clinic
$1,300-2,500
- Clinic fee: $900
- Flights: $300-1,200
- Meals & transport: $100-400
- Accommodation & charter: often included
North American Championship
$4,500-8,500
- Entry fee, flights, accommodation
- Coach support (~$2,000)
- Boat charter
- Meals & transport
World Championship Campaign
$7,500-15,000+
- International flights, accommodation
- Coach support (~$2,000)
- Boat charter & training camp
- Entry fee, meals & transport
For sponsors & federations
How Investment Creates Opportunity
Sponsors create opportunity. Opportunity creates performance. Performance creates impact.
$2,500
One SailBetter clinic + one regional regatta
$5,000
Orange Bowl or North American Championship support
$10,000
World Championship campaign support
$50,000+
Full international campaign & Olympic pathway