A WORCESTER youngster has set sail for success after being awarded her own boat – as used by Rio 2016 gold medallists.
Katherine Burgess, 12, was chosen to receive a new Optimist dinghy – the same model used by gold medallists Hannah Mills and Saskia Clark during the start of their sailing careers – by the John Merricks Sailing Trust (JMST), the official charity partner of RYA OnBoard.
Katherine was chose as one of just 15 winners from 80 applicants nationwide, following the RYA Midlands Zone Championships at Draycote Water SC in September, after demonstrating her enthusiasm, talent and commitment to the sport.
The previous boat the youngster owned was 30-years-old and could not perform to the same level as the modern dinghies, but the new model will set her on course for success with the Midlands RYA Zone Squad this winter – the first rung on the ladder towards Olympic Classes sailing.
The keen sailer is also a member of the Worcestershire Schools Sailing and Canoeing Association and the Bowmoor Lake SC in Lechlade.
OnBoard is a nationwide grassroots programme run by sailing’s national governing body, the RYA, with the aim of introducing sailing and windsurfing to young people.
Katherine said: “My old boat was not up-to-date with modern equipment, which would be much easier to set up and sail. I want to progress within the Optimist fleet and in two years’ time be in the national or intermediate squad, competing at international regattas representing Great Britain.
“I now feel I have a better chance of doing this thanks to being chosen to get a new boat.
“I’m happy when I’m sailing as it’s an exhilarating sport. I like being independent and making my own decisions, by experimenting with the different aspects of sailing.
“I’ve made good friends through sailing events and training. They are supporting me and helping me to improve. I love the fact we’re all doing a sport we love whilst building great friendships.”
Katherine’s mum, Vickie Burgess said: “She’s been inspired to follow in our Olympic sailors’ footsteps. Katherine loved her old boat and cared for it as her pride and joy.
“It has been great to get her to this level, but now we’re so grateful the JMST and RYA have recognised how receiving a new boat will help her progress in the sport she loves and seems to have a natural talent for.”
Visit www.rya.org.uk/go/onboard for more information.
