Teenagers Carl Evans and Peter Burling have become the youngest sailors named in New Zealand's Olympic team with their selection in the 470 class.

The 17-year-old duo finished 11th at the recent 470 world championships in Melbourne, Australia.

The previous youngest sailors in a New Zealand Olympic team were Murray Jones and David Barnes, who were 18 when selected for the 1976 Montreal Games. They were reserves, however, and did not compete.

New Zealand's youngest Olympian was swimmer Rebecca Perrott, who competed in Montreal as a 15-year-old.

Yachting New Zealand chief executive Des Brennan said they had selected the pair because they were medal contenders.

"We have remained true to nominating only sailors who are genuine medal prospects," Brennan said. "We have a very exciting team."

Reuters