April 23, 2026

By Laila Opanubi

The Australian WingFoil and IQ Foil Nationals at Lake Wangi, NSW in January was a great start to the year giving me the opportunity to put my training and racing skills to the test against a strong and competitive fleet, over 75 competitors all up. The week started with a She Sails clinic followed by 4 days of racing. As usual conditions varied from thunder storms, to no wind, to too much wind. However, it was rewarding to see the WingFoiling community come together, especially the large presence of RQ sailors, creating a fun and supportive atmosphere throughout the competition. Bringing home 1st in both Overall in Silver Fleet & Women’s, it was a fantastic way to wrap up the week. 

I then travelled to New Zealand to compete in the NZ Nationals at Worser Bay, Wellington, which proved to be another outstanding event, with a large contingent of Aussie sailors. Racing in the largest women’s fleet to date was particularly exciting, as it highlighted how much the sport is growing and how we continue to push each other to improve. There was such a high level of competition making racing a close race between everyone. After a series of tactical battles across a wide range of conditions, I was stoked to finish 1st overall in the women’s division and 4th overall in the silver fleet.

I would like to thank RQYS (and my coach, Mitch) for providing excellent facilities that allow me to continually develop my skills and improve my racing. The support from the community there have been invaluable. I’m excited to see what’s next.

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