Manx Youth Sailing Squad training
by Jenni Quillin 20 Nov 2009 15:01 GMT
14-15 November 2009
Manx Youth Sailing Squad training © Jenni Quillin
RS Tera national coach Jonathan Lewis visited the Isle of Man on 14th & 15th November to run a training weekend for members of the Manx Youth Sailing Squad.
Manx sailors impressed RS coaches at the RS Tera National Championship in September when the squad brought home the National Team Champions Trophy. Based on their performances at the Nationals the 2010 GBR RS Tera Squad will include Manx sailors Amie Shute (age 12), Izzy Sharpe (13), Hannah Howitt (14), James Kelly (13) and Greg Kelly (11).
The squad were due to attend training in the UK throughout the winter although owing to the logistical difficulties of travelling from the Island coach Jonathan Lewis will provide two intensive training sessions on the Island this winter. Squad members will attend the RS Tera training weekend at Draycote in March.
The Manx weather provided plenty of wind throughout the weekend. Despite the conditions the team were out on the water on both days. The youngsters sailed well and demonstrated their ability in the strong winds and big waves. Jonathan spent most of the weekend working with the sailors to improve their technique, particularly downwind work, sailing in waves, boat setup and race tuning. Jonathan made an excellent impression on the young sailors and each member of the team responded to him well.
The Manx Youth Sailing Squad was formed in 2008 and the team has achieved good results to date. Training is given by local coaches Phil Hardisty, Don Edwards, Rob Cowell and Jenni Quillin. Boats and training facilities are provided by 7th Wave RYA Training Centre in Port Erin.