23 April 2026
The International Optimist Class Association UK (IOCA UK) is delighted to announce a new partnership with leading performance sailing brand Rooster Sailing, which becomes the official class clothing sponsor of IOCA UK.
This exciting partnership will see Rooster support the thriving UK Optimist fleet while creating new opportunities for sailors across the class to access high-quality sailing apparel. Rooster will work closely with IOCA UK to provide personalised team kit for British sailors competing at major international team events this summer. The wider fleet will also benefit from a bespoke range of IOCA-branded Rooster clothing, allowing sailors, families and supporters to represent the class both on and off the water.
Rooster’s support extends beyond clothing. They will provide on-site assistance at key events, helping with kit distribution and advice, ensuring sailors are fully equipped to perform at their best. Additionally, Rooster is offering exclusive discounts across its full range, making the kit more accessible to all IOCA members.
IOCA UK are excited to be in partnership with Rooster Kit. Their ethos creating high-quality sailing gear designed by sailors, for sailors, and a passion for empowering every sailor to perform and enjoy their sport to the fullest complements the fleet perfectly. With training and racing continuing year-round access to comfortable technical kit is key. Discounts for IOCA UK members and provision of Team kit for the class will support our young sailors at the very start of their journey, nurturing skill, confidence, and a lifelong love of sailing.
Sarah Ellis Marketing & Communications Officer at IOCA UK
We’re incredibly proud to partner with IOCA UK and support one of the most important junior classes in sailing. The Optimist class is where so many sailors first discover the sport, build confidence and develop the foundations that stay with them throughout their sailing journey. At Rooster, supporting grassroots sailing is at the heart of what we do. We believe the sport should be accessible to all, with opportunity driven by passion and participation, not circumstance. Partnering with IOCA allows us to support sailors right at the very start of that journey and be part of their progression as they develop. We’re excited to support British team sailors with personalised kit for international events this summer, while also offering the wider fleet a bespoke range of IOCA-branded clothing and becoming part of this fantastic and passionate community.
Luke Morrison Managing Director at Rooster SailingWith strong shared values and a mutual commitment to supporting sailors at every stage of their development, IOCA UK and Rooster Sailing look forward to a long and successful partnership that will help inspire the next generation of sailors.