Promising Sailors

Promising Sailor Tew Jiaxuan Mika, 11

Because of that race, I continued to be focused as I wanted to do well in the next few races and that got me my first and most memorable medal.

"A good sailor is one who has sportsmanship, integrity and always willing to help other sailors."

School: Endeavour Primary School

Hobbies: Sailing, Cooking, Sleeping

Favourite Food: Soba, Waffles, Fish ball, Noodles

Words For a Fellow Sailor:

“An amazing sailor makes his or her own decisions and doesn’t let anyone else change it.”

Sailing Honours:

2022 • 2nd place - Pesta Sukan • 6th place - RSYC Knockout

Championships • 8th place - Raffles Marina

How did your sailing journey come about?

It first came when I joined sailing as my CCA in school. Actually, sailing wasn’t my first choice. After seeing my seniors having fun out at sea, it piqued my interest in the sport. None of my family members had ever sailed before, so I feel really lucky that sailing is my CCA and I am able to experience the ups and downs throughout the journey.

What’s your favourite aspect of sailing?

I consider myself as a competitive person. I often compete with my siblings when we play. I love competing in regattas and improving step-by-step. I also enjoy sailing with my friends and having fun out at sea. Whenever I face difficulties and overcome them, I see the improvement in myself and that makes me more confident.

What can you say about your time with SAF Yacht Club?

As a new sailor, I was unfamiliar with the ways to control and handle my boat especially during strong winds, but with the support and guidance from my coaches from Coach Iggy, Uncle Mazelan, Coach Murphy, Coach Edward and now Coach Mike, I feel I have become a more confident sailor.

Could you share your most memorable sailing experience?

My most memorable sailing experience was during one of the races at the Raffles Marina Regatta where I got into second place. When that happened, I was so excited! I couldn’t believed that I had beaten some of the best sailors in the fleet!

What about your worst experience in sailing?

At the start of my sailing journey, I went through GKA and learnt how to sail. During that time, I capsized 7 times in a row throughout 7 different trainings and the worst thing was I didn’t even know what my mistake was. However, I wouldn’t exactly say that it was a bad experience, but it certainly wasn’t fun either. And after capsizing so many times, I learned how to control the boat and I hardly ever capsize now.

Are you into other sports besides sailing? If yes, what are they?

Yes. I like playing volleyball and going swimming with my brothers. These sports allow me to relax and let go of all my stress, just like sailing!

What are your personal goals in terms of sailing?

Originally, I had hoped to get into Gold Fleet in June 2022 but after not taking part in the National Sailing Championships at NSC during the June holidays as I was sick, I narrowly missed my chance to get promoted. But now, I am setting my sights on getting into Gold Fleet.

Any regattas you are looking forward to participating this year? How do you prepare yourself for the competition?

I am looking forward to the regattas at the end of the year. Usually, 1 week before the competition, I would read the NORSI to get information on the regatta and familiarise myself with the course. I also make sure I check my sail and boat so that it is in tip-top condition for the races.

Promising Sailor Elliot Goh,9

School: Henry Park Primary School (HPPS)

Hobbies: I like reading, especially adventure stories and history books.

Favourite Food: My daddy’s garlic butter crabs!

Words For a Fellow Sailor:

''Always try your best and never give up.''

Sailing Honours:

2022 • 5th place - RSYC Optimist

Knockout Championship,

Silver Fleet • 7th place - Pesta Sukan

Regatta, Silver Fleet • Youngest qualifier for Finals -

National Schools Games

How did your sailing journey come about?

My mother sailed when she was in school and asked me whether I wanted to try it. I tried it and liked it!

What’s your favourite aspect of sailing?

I enjoy being out in the water, the wind, the sun, the movement of the boat, and making decisions on my own.

What can you say about your time with SAF Yacht Club?

I have enjoyed learning from the coaches, and having fun with my friends in SAF Yacht Club.

Could you share your most memorable sailing experience?

Earning my first medal at the RSYC Optimist Knockout Championship 2022.

What about your worst experience in sailing?

During my first full day of racing in Singapore National Sailing Championships 2022 in June, I felt awful and couldn’t think during

''A good sailor is someone who works hard, is alert in the water, and never gives up.''

the fourth and last race of the day. My mother told me it was probably because I was too hungry as I had forgotten to eat my snack in the boat. I learned my lesson and always drink and eat between races after that.

Are you into other sports besides sailing? If yes, what are they? I used to play football and tennis, but now I’m focused on sailing.

What are your personal goals in terms of sailing?

I want to continue to enjoy sailing and improve as a sailor.

Any regattas you are looking forward to participating this year? How do you prepare yourself for the competition?

I’m looking forward to the NSC Cup in November. I have been sailing a lot and working on my fitness.