Two local sailors are set to embark on the opportunity of a lifetime, racing alongside their sailing idols at the SailGP event in Christchurch next month.
Izzy Harrison and Lauchy Wills, who sail at Bucklands Beach Yacht Club and Howick Sailing Club, have been selected to compete in the RS Feva racing event, part of the Inspire Racing Programme.
It takes place on the SailGP racecourse in Lyttelton Harbour moments before the likes of Pete Burling, Jimmy Spithill and Ben Ainsley battle it out in their amazing foiling catamarans.
SailGP is live action, adrenaline-inducing sailing like many have never seen before.
Izzy and Lauchy will also have the opportunity to watch the F50s race from on the water in the officials’ boats after racing their own.
“I’m hoping to have the opportunity to meet some of the world’s top sailors, see the incredible equipment they use and it will be really cool to see the boats racing up close,’ says Izzy.
The pair hope to learn a few sailing tips for some of the world’s best- and may even be part of the main race one day.
The Inspire Racing Programme aims to provide young local sailors with the opportunity to experience the highest level of racing environments.
Alongside 14 other young sailors from across New Zealand, Izzy and Lauchy will race their RS Fevas -performance double-handed dinghies- around Lyttelton Harbour in front of the crowds.
The Inspire Racing Programme has selected the youngsters for their ‘good sailing ability, positive attitude, ambition and sailors who demonstrate the potential to become a future champion of our sport’.
Many of us watched the footage of the severe gust of wind that ripped through the SailGP camp in Sydney Harbour last weekend at the SailGP racing in Australia.
Although damage was done, particularly to the Canadian boat, Kiwis have been reassured that the next leg of the tour in Christchurch on March 18 and 19 will go ahead.
Good luck Izzy and Lauchy!
