Held every four years in the summer, the Canada Games are an important event in the development of Canada's young athletes. These athletes, the best in their age group, participate in the Games representing their respective province or territory. They are expected to be the next generation of athletes representing Canada nationally and internationally.

Sailing was introduced to the program of the Paris Olympic Games in 1900. Today, athletes wishing to participate in this event must first qualify for the Canadian sailing team. A key step in their development is participating in the Canada Games.