In a spectacular two-day showcase of maritime skill, the sixth-grade students of Gumdale State School recently navigated Manly waters with finesse during a thrilling regatta, bringing an exciting close to the school term. The participants aboard one of the Academy’s 6 RS Quests, skilfully manoeuvred their vessels, each carrying 4 to 5 students and one of the Sailing Academy’s Instructors or an Assistant Instructors, as they competed in a series of 3 to 6 races throughout the exhilarating two-hour regatta.

It’s worth noting that the Gumdale State School students’ sailing journey begins early, with their participation in the RQYS sailing program commencing in grade 2. Every year, these budding sailors eagerly attend the program, completing Intro to Tackers, Tackers 1, 2, and 3 courses in the Opti and in their final year moving up into the bigger boats in Start Sailing 1. They have successfully been honing their sailing skills and cultivating a passion for the sport until they reach the pinnacle of their sailing experience in grade 6.

Parents and guardians, stationed along the RQYS Windsurfing beach, enthusiastically cheered on the 111 young sailors over the course of 2 days in 4 regattas, witnessing firsthand the impressive proficiency these budding sailors have developed over time.

The students, guided by their years of experience and the foundation laid by the RQYS sailing program, not only demonstrated their proficiency in sailing but also forged lasting memories that will undoubtedly remain etched in their minds for years to come.