Top-three sailing accomplishments
1st girls 29er at the 2023 NZ youth championships and 3rd overall.
1st girl at the 2023 Starling Auckland championships.
1st under-12 girl at the 2021 NZ Optimist national championships and 2nd girl overall.
How did you get into sailing?
I started by sailing an RS Feva off Waiheke Island at the age of 5. Then, when I was old enough, I started Learn to Sail at Murrays Bay in an Opti. I was encouraged to start sailing when I watched my dad sail and thought it was super cool.
What is your favourite food after a long day on the water?
A home-cooked meal by my mum.
Where is your favourite place to sail?
Newport, Rhode Island in the US.
What is your favourite thing to do when not sailing?
I enjoy hanging out with my friends and playing different sports like hockey and tennis.
Who are your role models?
I look up to my dad as he has accomplished a lot in sailing and puts a lot of time into helping others, including my sister and I. My other role models are Robert Scheidt, as he shows great determination in the sport and has done so much in his many years sailing the Laser, and Alex Maloney because she has achieved so much in a variety of classes and is an inspiring Olympic medallist.
What is the best thing about sailing in your youth class?
The 29er is super fun, especially in the wind and waves, and the fleet is highly competitive.
What was the proudest moment of your sailing to date?
Qualifying for the 2023 youth team. It is so cool to qualify for this team at a young age, so it helps me for the rest of my youth years and I can't wait for this super cool experience.
What do you hope to achieve in sailing in the next 12 months?
My goal in the next 12 months is to win a medal at the youth worlds.
How will you prepare for the 2023 youth sailing world championships?
Sail as much as possible, find out the most I can about the venue, and be fit.
What are your sailing career goals?
To win a gold medal at the Olympics.
Chloe Turner and Lucy Leith. Photo / Salty Shot Photography