The 2011 Nautilus Marine NSW Youth Championships has attracted more than 130 youth sailors over twelve classes including 29er, 420, Bic Techno 293, Flying 11, Flying Ant, Laser 4.7, Laser Radial, Manly Junior, Optimist and Sabot.
Held over the October long weekend, the annual regatta is hosted this year by the Illawarra Yacht Club on Lake Illawarra.
One of those competing is seventeen year old Sam Treharne from Sydney’s Pittwater. Sam started his sailing career on Manly Juniors and Flying 11’s and has since gone onto focusing on the windsurfing classes. This year he has entered his Bic Techno 293 for annual regatta.
The Techno 293 class is designed to develop windsurfer racing for youth competitors around the world in an inexpensive racing format. The class forms part of the ‘Olympic Pathway’ which is recognised by ISAF as the feeder class to RS:X at Olympic level
Sam remembers when he first started sailing. 'My dad and brother encouraged me, taking me sailing on a little yacht called Daisy.' Sam’s dad is of course Hugh Treharne, who was tactician on the America’s Cup Winning Australia II.
With many other members of his family involved in sailing, it is probably inevitable that Sam inherited the passion. He was quick to mention another family member when asked who he sees as a rival. 'I guess I’d have to say my brother Robbie, or my mate Eamon Robertshaw from Western Australia.'
In the lead up to a regatta such as this Sam says he doesn’t let the pressure get to him. He just gets out on his windsurfer as much as possible after school and on weekends and talks things through to his coach, Craig Ferris from the NSW Institute of Sport.
With an attitude that belies his dedication, his ambition of being in the top ten of the world may just be on the agenda. 'I try my best and have fun with it.'
The 2011 Nautilus Marine NSW Youth Championships is held on 1-3 October. Entries are still open.
Yachting NSW is a not for profit organisation responsible for the administration, promotion and advancement of the sport of sailing at all levels throughout NSW.
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