Sailing Academy –Training and Results

In addition, we have provided training and support to a total of 215 individual members in the various classes of the Club.

The results achieved have positioned SoPYC as a frontrunner in terms of both performance outcomes and participation numbers. What fills me with the greatest sense of pride, however, is the exceptional learning environment we have fostered within our squads. This achievement is largely credited to our outstanding coaching staff, who consistently receive compliments for their exceptional work.

Worlds at FSC ~ Flyng 15s

In preparation for the Flying 15 World Championships in March, SoPYC’s Headcoach – Denis Jones, dedicated a significant amount of time and resources to train a group of over 20 boats, mainly over the 6-month lead in. This comprehensive professional coaching was a first-time experience for most of the squad, both prior to and during the event. The sailors faced numerous challenges, and I was immensely proud of their receptive attitude towards feedback and their collaborative efforts.

The outstanding results spoke volumes about their teamoriented approach, with a 2nd place finish and four teams securing spots in the top ten. Other boats also achieved notable successes, highlighting the effectiveness of the squad's collective efforts.

Unfortunately, the regatta concluded one day early, depriving us of the opportunity to tackle the final challenge and secure a 1st place for Nick and Brad, as the World Champions had already clinched victory with a race to spare.

Nevertheless, it was a worthy final race win for Nick and Brad, solidifying the lessons learned throughout the regatta. The sailors are now fuelled with inspiration for future endeavours, and even past World Champion Graeme Lillingston is making a comeback to the fleet, further adding to the excitement and competitive spirit of the Flying 15’s.

Nationals at SoPYC ~ 125s

The 125 class is a fantastic Club category that brings together diverse teams consisting of parents and children, females, males, or mixed groups of different ages. This creates a wonderful blend of younger and older sailors, all sailing together and fostering a sense of camaraderie.

Notably, Ryan Sherburn, a former National Champion, paired up with all-round sailor Lachy Putt to deliver an exceptional and consistent performance throughout the series. They dominated the competition by winning all but one race, demonstrating exceptional skills and teamwork.

Open Skiffs

Over the course of two years, one of my goals was to revitalize the Open Skiff fleet as a means to invigorate junior sailing in Western Australia, with SoPYC at the forefront of this growth.

The culmination of these efforts came to fruition with the successful acquisition of a container of 40 new boats into the state and the hosting of the National titles in 2023.

Balancing this growth with our thriving Optimist fleets was a planned but challenging endeavour, yet we managed to expand the SoPYC fleet to over 30 boats without diminishing the success of our Optimist fleets.

Both the Optimist and Open Skiff boats serve as excellent entry-level boats for junior sailors. The Open Skiff offers some unique advantages such as moding and the ability to safely sail in strong winds, to overcome fear and develop essential transitional skills for more advanced classes. On the other hand, the Optimist provides a more stable boat, allowing ample time for sailors to master tactical situations.

The presence of both fleet within our training options ensures that young sailors have access to a comprehensive range of sailing experiences to develop their individual skills and foster their growth in sailing.

Other Events

Windfoil

The Windfoil class is a very new, popular and exciting class which at the top end is one of the fastest Olympic classes. For a lot of our Youth, it’s a very cost affective option to sail something very fast, exciting and definitely challenging.

SoPYC Sailors, Ben Robinson and Lachy Putt were rewarded for their very hard training with a 1st and 2nd Youth at the WA States and Ben has earned his opportunity to compete at the IQ Youth Europeans this year where the class has 100’s of young sailors regularly competing.

SoPYC is one of three river Clubs supporting the Windfoil fleet, alongside the high-performance programs at FSC with WAIS assistance.

Wingfoil

Sailors and non-sailors from various backgrounds, including Laser sailors, as well as Olympic and professional sailors, have embraced the newest foiling craft in the world as an exhilarating and valuable addition to their skill set. Many of them incorporate it into their training routines as an extra cross-training class, recognizing its unique benefits and the opportunities it offers for their overall development.

Racing events have gained momentum worldwide, although they are still in their early stages in Western Australia (WA). At the WA State Championship, SoPYC's Oli Pabbruwe, who is also experienced in Keelboats and Laser sailing, emerged as the winner. Additionally, SoPYC’s Noah Karatonus, who sailed Optimist, Open Skiff, 29er, and Kite Foil, claimed the junior champion title.

SoPYC took the lead in introducing Wingfoil training in WA, inspiring other Clubs across Australia to follow suit. This form of foiling stands out due to the unique experience of holding onto the Wingsail while adjusting the foil's position solely based on feel and the direct and immediate feedback.

Wingfoiling offers so many learning opportunities that can be applied to any type of sailing, particularly a more advanced appreciation and understanding of the effect of wind and water on your boat.

Windsurfer LT Class

SoPYC is set to host the World Championship in 2024 for the fastest-growing class in the world, creating a buzz of excitement and leading to a rapid expansion of the fleet.

Among the sailors preparing for the event, SoPYC's versatile sailor, Lachy Putt, wasted no time and secured victories in both the Junior State Title and Lightweight division.

With multiple World and National Champions in Perth, training and racing opportunities have already commenced, and SoPYC is actively engaged in these preparations.

Keelboat Women

Two teams dedicated themselves to two months of intensive training ahead of the event, and one of those teams emerged victorious, clinching the State Championship title.

Congratulations to these talented ladies on their achievement, and we eagerly anticipate further growth and success for womens sailing at SoPYC.

Keelboat Youth

Our Youth Team comprised of our Keelboat, Foiling, 29er and Laser sailors. The event was a bit of a drifting affair but looks like we will be well represented in the future. There are some exciting opportunities in “League” sailing which other Clubs around Australia are involved with and we will evaluate opportunities.

29ers

The 29er class is undergoing a rebuilding phase nationwide, and this is true for Western Australia as well.

SoPYC State Champion sailors Jamie and Axel showcased their talent at the 2023 Nationals, narrowly missing out on a victory. They successfully manage their involvement in various Pathway Training activities for the