The annual NZIODA Development camp went ahead last weekend after a year on ice. Forty-three sailors, their parents and eight coaches came together from around New Zealand to sail out of Gulf Harbour Yacht Club on the Whangaparoa Peninsula.
Usually these sailors would be part of teams preparing to travel overseas to compete in international optimist regattas. Despite this, the focus of the clinic was developing world class habits at home alongside a strong focus on enjoyment and building our team culture. Although no traveling is likely to take place outside of Australia this year, each sailor came into the camp excited to have made a team and represent New Zealand.
During the clinic we were lucky to have three sessions on the water training in a great range of conditions. The coaches designed some unorthodox drills such as time trials and mark foy starts to keep sailors on their toes. On land the highlight of the onshore activities was Olympic silver medalists Alex Maloney, Molly Meech and their coach Nathan Handley stopping in to take part in a Q&A. The sailors prepared questions to try and make the most of having the world’s best sharing their knowledge.
Many of the sailors at the camp are now finishing their optimist sailing and are moving up the pathway into other boats such as the P class, Starling, or other youth classes. NZIODA, the coaches, and everyone involved in the camp, would like to congratulate these sailors and wish them all the best with the next step in their sailing journey.
For those staying in the opti the NZIODA Optimist Team will meet for two more clinics up in Auckland in July and September. The Girls and 11 and 12 Year old development teams will also be included in the September clinic.
Sam Mackay
NZIODA Head Coach
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