Bermuda sailors Preston Farrow and Mustafa Ingham have both put their names in to be included in the Red Bull Youth America’s Cup team.

The trials, described as “the brightest opportunity to come along in a long time for our country’s young athletes,” by Craig Brown, the vice-chairman of the Team Bermuda America’s Cup committee, will take place on August 8, and have already attracted 35 athletes.

“I saw this opportunity to sail for Bermuda and I couldn’t turn it down,” Farrow, 21, said. “I saw this as a once in a lifetime opportunity, just to participate in the America’s Cup.”

Farrow, standing 6ft 2in and weighing 200lbs, possesses the type of frame needed to help propel the AC45 catamarans used in the prestigious race through the water, and will be vying for one of five spots on the boat.

“I’ve never sailed on one of those, but I’m sure I’m up to the task and I can’t wait to get on one of them if I’m luckily selected,” added the former tri-varsity athlete from Avon Old Farms, who specialised in football, lacrosse, and swimming.

“From what I saw from the video that they put together online, a lot of the skills required looked to be upper body strength, then some agility for jumping around the boats. You need to have some good balance with that.”

Of the five spots, two require some definite sailing experience. Ingham, 19, has a background in sailing as a child that he hopes to pair with his athletic accomplishments and find his place on the team.

The 6ft 1in, 185lb high jumper is primed for the mental and physical test that will take place at the tryouts next month.

Of the athletes signed up so far, there are 22 sailors and 13 non-sailors. Athletes are encouraged to sign up at www.acbda.bm. A second tryout is planned for September for those who cannot attend the first.