QCYC sailor on track

Young optimist sailor Alastair Gifford continued a tradition of Queen Charlotte Yacht Club success, travelling to Noumea in New Caledonia to sail with the New Zealand optimist development team earlier this month.

The 10-year-old was one of 11 young sailors who travelled to the island to contest the New Caledonian nationals.

Despite battling winds of over 20 knots, the light-framed, 35kg sailor placed 15th overall.

He was joined in Noumea by older brother William, who also took the opportunity to sail, placing 17th.

Alastair was selected in the team after finishing as top sailor aged 10 years or younger at the opti national champs.

The regatta was his first taste of overseas action, which unfortunately meant he inherited the unwanted duty of luggage carrier.

However, there were plenty of other exciting experiences on and off the water, including a first trip in front of a judiciary council after he was protested in one of the races.

Since returning to New Zealand, Alastair has not been idle, contesting the North Island opti champs last weekend and placing 17th.

- The Marlborough Express