Top three sailing accomplishments:
- 2022 NZL Sailing Youth Foundation Team trials winner, 3rd overall
- 2022 Auckland Champs - 1st female, 2nd overall
- 2021 NZ 29er National Champion - 1st female, 5th overall
Q & A with Lucy
How did you get into sailing?
My dad and older brother sailed at Murrays Bay. I was spending a bit of time at the club and thought I would give it a go.
What is your favourite thing to eat after a long day on the water?
I love to eat popcorn after a long day on the water followed by a home cooked meal.
Where is your favourite place to sail?
I loved sailing in Bermuda at the Opti Gold Cup but in New Zealand it is the waters off Murrays Bay Sailing Club.
What is your favourite thing to do when not sailing?
I love to play hockey and hang out with my friends.
Who are your role models?
I admire how Jo Aleh and Polly Powrie handled their disappointing races at the 2016 Olympic Games in Rio and went on to win the silver medal.
What is the best thing about sailing your youth class boat?
The 29er is a fun, fast boat in a competitive fleet and I get to sail with another person.
What do you hope to achieve in sailing in the next 12 months?
A good result at the nationals in June and to learn a lot from the overseas regattas that we have planned for this year. It will be great to check in with the overseas fleets after not being able to travel for two years.
How will you prepare for the youth sailing world championships and which regattas will you be attending in the lead-up?
We will be attending the Yachting NZ clinics, continuing with our club racing and regular training plus fitting in some more intense coaching closer to the time. In the lead up to the youth worlds we will be attending the Europeans in Denmark and following on from the youth worlds we will be going to the open worlds in Barcelona.
What are your sailing career goals?
To sail to the best of my ability.
What was the proudest moment of your sailing to date, and tell us how you felt?
Every time Lizzie and I come back during a race or improve during a regatta. Overcoming adversity makes us stronger as a team.
Teammate: Lizzie Shapland
