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The future of yachting begins in junior classes and the recent 2021 NZIODA North Island clinic certainly showed the future is bright.
As many as 49 Optimist sailors spent four days at the Willow Park Camp at Eastern Beach building friendships, having a lot of fun and learning and developing new skills.
This year was special due to the connection all the young sailors feel to the upcoming America's Cup and the youngsters were treated to witnessing all four boats racing off the beach during two of the days of the camp.
American Magic's Jim Turner also came along one night to speak about his job and journey in the America’s Cup and both American Magic and Luna Rossa donated team gear that was given out as spot prizes to the sailors.
An interesting part of having Turner along was that he was a coach at the clinic back in 2004, which demonstrates the strong history behind this camp.
During the week the sailors took part in traditions that have been around since the beginning, including the speed day where they sail to Motuihe Island for lunch and games, the dash for cash on the way home, a team racing day and the coaches regatta to finish off the week.
With great weather all week, a fantastic lineup of passionate coaches and amazing parent helpers, the week was immensely successful and all involved are excited to see where these future sailors end up in our sport.
