Young Sailors Head To The Sunshine State
Members of the Visionary Sailing Academy [VSA] are getting set for their inaugural foray into one of youth sailing’s signature regattas, the Orange Bowl International Youth Regatta in Florida, starting on Boxing Day [Dec 26].
VSA are expected to present five participants at the event, hosted by Coral Reef Yacht Club, among the southern reaches of the Sunshine State, with Bermuda also represented by youngsters from various other sailing institutions, including Royal Bermuda Yacht Club [RBYC], St George’s Dinghy and Sports Club [SGDSC], Royal Hamilton Amateur Dinghy Club [RHADC], and Sandys Boat Club [SBC].
Jade Smith is one of those from VSA due to take part, having won the overall title in the Green Fleet at the earlier Bermuda Open and National Optimist Championship. Smith will be joined by club teammate Brianna Smith and three others in this competitive foray abroad.
Coach and programme founder Rajee Woods said that, while he would have preferred more time with his charges in preparation, they are ready and able to do well overseas, saying, “Training has not been as consistent as would have been preferred, with things like school and other extra curricular posing challenges.
“Going to the regatta, it’s about learning gaining experience and enjoying the sport through competition. A good showing simply means training paid off.
“After the Orange Bowl, it’s continued training working towards championship fleet level.”
