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The NZIODA North Island clinic returns to a live-in camp in 2023, which is one of the most popular aspects of the formative experience.
Uncertainty brought about by Covid-19 forced organisers to reluctantly change plans and cancel the line-in aspect of this year's clinic. It still saw 72 Optimist sailors from around New Zealand gather each day for four days at the Wakatere Boating Club to be mentored by some of this country's best coaches.
In January it will return to Willow Park on Auckland's Eastern Beaches, where Optimist sailors from green fleet level through to the top of the open fleet will receive coaching and advice to set them up for their sailing futures.
Among those who have been signed up to coach include former Optimist world champion and professional sailor Chris Steele as well as multiple world champion and New Zealand's most successful Optimist coach Andrew Wills.
"It's an opportunity for any Opti sailor, no matter where they are from, to meet some new friends, learn off each other and learn from some of the best coaches in New Zealand," said Yachting New Zealand youth and event manager Sam Mackay, who also doubles as NZIODA head coach.
"For many, it has provided a really good platform for them to move up to the top of the fleet. Most sailors who have come through the Opti in the last 15 years will remember their experience of the North Island clinic."
The on-water coaching is supplemented by talks from guest speakers, who give an insight into things like boat set-up, nutrition and fitness, event planning and even what options sailors have after the Optimist.
"A big thing is independence, because for many it's one of the longest times they've been away from home, and it's really cool to see the growth of these youngsters over the week," Mackay said.
The South Island clinic runs from December 18-20 at the Charteris Bay Yacht Club, and registrations close on November 18.
The North Island clinic runs from January 10-13, with registrations also closing on November 18.
Both are run with the support of the OWNZ Trust and rely on volunteers to help each day.
You can find more information about the clinics here.
