By JOHN VAN KLAVEREN
MORE young Geelong sailors could be striding international decks if a new elite training program is successful.
Royal Geelong Yacht Club and Barwon Sports Academy have combined to support promising young sailors from across the region to compete at state, national and world-championship levels.
The partnership program follows RGYC’s recent world championship victory at an International Cadet World Titles in UK.
Tom and Sophie Alexander won the prestigious championship with a string of first and second places, beating 60 other teams from around the world.
The new program will offer promising young sailors access to world-class trainers in physiotherapy, strength and conditioning, nutrition and sports psychology.
RGYC sailing and training manager Rod Hagebols said the program was a huge step forward for young local sailors.
“Previously, this type of support was only available to Victorian Institute of Sport athletes in Melbourne, requiring Geelong-based athletes to travel in order to access it,” Hagebols explained.
“Our challenge now is to encourage applications from across the Geelong, Bellarine and the western region.”
Barwon Sports Academy head Cameron Loftus said the program would ensure talented young sportspeople were provided with the best possible opportunity to reach their full potential.
“In addition to the outstanding coaching they are receiving currently, the athletes will receive strength and conditioning, athlete education, an expansive medical network, grants advice, gym membership and the chance to receive mentoring by past athletes.”
