12 young sailors graduate from RNZYS Lion Foundation Youth Training

by Sara Tucker on 20 Apr 2015 12 young sailors, ranging from 19 – 21 years of age, graduated from the RNZYS Lion Foundation Youth Training Programme on the evening of Friday 10th April and another 12 sailors venture into the next step of their sailing careers!

This marks the end of the 27th year of the RNZYS Lion Foundation Youth Training Programme which to date has graduated over 452 sailors many of whom have achieved outstanding results in their sport! Sailors such as Mark Christensen, Gavin Brady, James Dagg, Jeremy Lomas, David Endean, Sharon Ferris, Amy Mulcahy, Adam Minoprio, Phil Robertson, Chris Steele…… the list goes on.

Friday’s graduation ceremony at the Squadron was attended by sponsors, race management, graduates, family and friends.

The graduating class of 2015:

Graduates of 1 year Romano Chung
Tanya Peart
Will Reid
James Robert
Lisa Dartnall

Graduates of 2 years Jake Stanley-Harris
Michelle Tait
Josh Gardiner
Nick Baxter
Leo Pagani

Graduates of 3 years Connor Mashlan
George Brasell

Commodore Andy Anderson commented that “The Lion Foundation Youth Training Programme is such an important part of this club and we are so proud of what all the individuals have achieved over its formidable 27 years. This programme has an amazing history and alumni and now you too are all a part of that. I’m sure that you will all find that the skills and friendships you have developed during your time here will endure well into your bright futures.”

Coach Guy Pilkington took the opportunity to thank the many Sponsors, Supporters, Race Management, Umpires and Graudates who’s immense support throughout the year assures that training is kept to the very highest standard.
“It has been another fantastic year and the support we have received has been enormous. I am extremely proud of what this group has achieved and we look forward to this coming season.”

The 28th Season of the Youth Training Programme will begin on Sunday 10th May. 18 trainees will return to complete their 2nd or 3rd years. To date we have 18 new applicants. Registrations are still open for the 2015/2016 Season. We invite any interested young sailors to register online at www.rnzys.org.nz | youth programme or contact our Coaching Staff.

Guy Pilkington | Coach
gpilkington@rnzys.org.nz | 0274 918 962

Sara Tucker | Administrator
stucker@rnzys.org.nz