Top-three sailing achievements:
Winning the Optimist Nationals and Starling Nationals back-to-back.
Back-to-back national titles in the 29er.
2nd at Kiel Week.
How did you first get into sailing?
I've always been on or around boats because of my dad. At age 7, I started Learn to Sail at Wakatere Boating Club. By the time I was 10, I had built strong bonds with friends and coaches, and my passion for sailing continued to grow, leading me to where I am today.
What is the best thing about sailing your class?
The connections you make overseas - coming back the next year and being welcomed by all the sailors like you've been part of the community the whole time.
Where is your favourite sailing spot?
Kiel for regattas and Lake Garda for training.
What is the proudest moment of your career so far?
In 2023, after winning the Opti Nationals, we drove into the boat park at Manly for the last day of Starling Nationals with a 19-point lead. The race committee boat was pulled out because it was too windy, meaning I had won both regattas back to back. Success like that brings a huge sense of relief - it feels amazing to see hard work pay off.
What are you hoping to achieve in the next 12 months?
To sail my best at all the major overseas regattas.
What is your long-term sailing goal?
To create an opportunity to sail professionally and find a way to make a living from it.
Who is your role model?
My dad.
What do you do when you're not sailing?
Nine holes of golf with Will, Tim, and Lucas after a big day on the water, an afternoon round with school mates, or trips up to Te Arai with the crew.
And your favourite food?
Crispy teriyaki chicken on rice from Katsubi - it feels like a treat when I get it during regattas, especially washed down with a dragon fruit vitamin water.
What is your dream destination?
A long Europe trip with my mates, somewhere warm and by the water, where we can just get lost and explore.
How have you been preparing for the Youth World Championships?
Our goal is to treat Youth Worlds like any other regatta. Willy and I perform best when we focus on sailing well, rather than worrying about the scale of the event.
