Emirates Team New Zealand Youth Training Programme
Coaches Report
The Coastal
LIGHT…!!!!
With Labour Weekend providing a weekend off for the Emirates Team New Zealand Youth Training Programme, it was a great opportunity for some of our athletes to take on the PIC Coastal Classic, the 119nm the great race north. The forecast was extremely light, making for a challenging race, and only 10 racing boats finishing within the time limit. It was tricky sailing all round and a real test of patience, decision making, and perseverance.
Here are a few words from the athletes who took part in the race.
Gretel Satterthwaite sailing on Apache
It was a super challenging race, with lots of gains to be made in the light. It was a privilege to be able to sail on Apache with a crew of absolute legends who I learnt heaps from.
Georgia Howlett sailing on Explore
We had a great start to the race, but we decided to pull the pin about a mile off Kawau Island. Bit of a bummer, as it was my first one, but there’s always next year, and it was still a good day with the team.
Charlie Solly sailing on Alegre
I had an awesome time on Alegre for the Coastal Classic, with some good competition against Revs and General Lee. It was a long race in light winds and only two hours of sleep, but I made some unreal memories, bonded heaps as a team, and learnt a lot from the wider sailing community.
Paco Weisz sailing on Alegre
I really enjoyed the Coastal Classic. It was great to get more miles in, work on my patience, and improve some details of my helming with the crew’s feedback. I also found it really interesting to talk with the tactician and understand his decision-making throughout the race.
Robyn Ashton sailing on Physical Favours
This year was my 5th coastal ‘race’ I’m super grateful for Ryan from the Ross 30 Physical Favours for having me onboard late notice. This year was a bit of a drift off but still lots of fun – with good company, dolphins and a nice break.
