Top-three sailing achievements:
2nd place at the 2025 Kiel Woche (Euro Cup 8).
2x New Zealand youth champion.
2x Optimist national champion.
How did you first get into sailing?
My dad was a top-level sailor when he was younger, and we've always lived right next to the water and the Charteris Bay Yacht Club. I was always around the club and in the water, so as soon as I was old enough to hop in an Optimist, Dad got me started. I was lucky that Charteris Bay has a great junior pathway, which helped me get involved early - and it’s just gone from there.
What is the best thing about sailing your class?
The best thing about sailing the 29er is the mix of speed and tight racing - two things you don't often get together in other youth classes. The 29er keeps you on your toes and always challenges you, especially in conditions like those at the 2025 trials. Another great part is sharing the boat with Willy (Mason). We're good mates, which makes the vibe relaxed but competitive - with a fair bit of banter.
Where is your favourite sailing spot?
The obvious answer is Lake Garda in Italy - it’s the perfect mix of a great sailing venue and an incredible holiday spot. I sailed there for the 2024 Youth Worlds and the 29er Europeans, and it's hard to beat. But I'd also say Kiel, because that's where Willy and I got our first international podium this year - it's a special place for us.
What is the proudest moment of your career so far?
Crossing the finish line in the final race at Kiel Week earlier this year. It was such a relief and a huge sense of achievement because, despite a few slip-ups, we'd sailed a really strong regatta - all top 10s in tricky conditions. We thought we'd finished third, but when Willy came over and told me we'd actually got second, that was a pretty awesome moment.
What are you hoping to achieve in the next 12 months?
To finish on the podium at a major regatta - whether that's the Youth Worlds, Open Worlds, or Europeans. It's a big goal for Willy and me, but we've built a solid foundation and know we can get there with consistent performances. We're planning another season together, so it'll be exciting to see how much further we can push ourselves.
What is your long-term sailing goal?
To be part of teams like The Black Foils or Emirates Team New Zealand. Competing or even being involved behind the scenes with those teams would be incredible - whether that's on the water, shore crew, or design side. Beyond that, I just want to keep sailing after school and university. It doesn't really matter what I'm sailing - as long as I'm racing and on the water, I'll be happy.
Who are your role models?
People like George Lee Rush, Seb Menzies, and the Moth sailors Mattias Coutts and Jake Pye. They're all a step ahead of me in both age and level, and hopefully, I can follow in their footsteps in the years to come.
What do you do when you're not sailing?
Definitely golf. I love getting out on the course or in the simulator, especially after a long day on the water. It's challenging and sometimes frustrating, but playing with mates brings out our competitive side - especially when Tim Howse and I beat Willy and Lucas (which happens regularly!).
And your favourite food?
Sushi and a dragon fruit vitamin water. After sailing, chicken on rice and a few lollies always hit the spot.
What is your dream destination?
Probably one of the Formula 1 circuits or a PGA golf event - playing on those courses would be unreal. The islands are always a great place to escape to as well.
How have you been preparing for the Youth World Championships?
I've been flying up to Auckland as often as possible to get on the water and refine what Willy and I have been working on, though it's tricky with end-of-year exams. We're lucky to have some amazing coaches sharing their experience and insights. At home, I'm training in the gym and making sure everything's sorted so I can perform at my best at the Worlds.
