AOST & AODS Program

The Program

The opportunity to join OptiAUS/AIODA’s Australian Optimist Sailing Team (AOST) or Australian Optimist Development Squad (AODS) is a unique, rewarding and highly sought after experience. Participation in either the AOST or AODS should be viewed as a privilege. It is also an opportunity to build sailing experience with a number of similarly motivated sailors trying their best. Results achieved should not be the sole motivation, nor single performance indicator, but rather the collective learned experiences both in life and in sailing. 

To learn more, see the AOST participation guide.

Background

The AOST program was first introduced in 2006-7, with the AODS introduced in 2015.

2026 Program

In 2026, AIODA will aim to select an Australian Optimist Sailing Team consisting of 15 sailors and the AODS of 12-16  sailors.

Positions on AOST or AODS will be offered to eligible sailors based on rankings from the 2026 Musto Australian Optimist Championships where sailors also participated in the 2026 Australian Optimist Team Racing Championship. All eligible sailors who have nominated and are offered a position on the AOST or AODS are required to meet and maintain the Eligibility Criteria outlined in the Selection Protocol below. 

To Nominate for selection consideration to a 2026 AOST or AODS (Open Fleet sailors only):-  CLICK HERE