Introduction

My name is Allegra Nash, I am 16 years old and just starting my final year of high school. I regularly sail laser radials at Lane Cove 12ft Skiff Club and volunteer coach kids on Start Sailing, Better Sailing and Start Racing. I also play Under 18 basketball for North Sydney Bears and do Australian Air Force Cadets in which I flew solo in a Glider.

How did you get into sailing + How long have you been sailing for?

I began sailing as a form of vacation care when I was in primary school (so I didn’t need a nanny). I immediately enjoyed the competitive spirit and being on the water. Originally it was a ‘start Sailing’ course in summer which I participated in followed by ‘start racing’. From this, I did a better sailing course and began to race sabots locally. I attempted to go on a Learn to Sail course again -  but they wouldn’t let me, so they told me to help instruct. Now, I have been sailing for approximately 6 years, and plan to continue for at least 70 more.

What are some of your favourite things about sailing?

Some of the things I really love about sailing is the competitive spirit brought about by the community and atmosphere at the club. The accepting environment of all ages, genders and skill levels is encouraging to keep sailing as no one is left behind. I also enjoy the flexibility of commitment. Due to schooling and HSC commitment I currently face, I can’t sail every week; but the flexibility of sailing allows for me to come back when ever like I never paused. Sailing is also, for me, an incredibly competitive sport and the intense atmosphere brought about by the crowding and speed of boats over a race course is exhilarating.

How did you get into instructing and what are your favourite aspects of instructing?

Instructing for me is generally about giving back, which I personally love to do. As well as this, the kids I get to meet and teach are really friendly and interested in something that I am also interested in. The bond that’s created always encourages me to come back every season. I originally was brought into instructing as I couldn’t go on anymore learn to sail, so I helped out. Gradually this became more frequent and I learnt aspects of leadership. The leadership skills that I gained within the sailing club, have helped me enormously in the wider community, like in school, I recently got elected as a prefect. Through instructing I also acquired my Boat license, First Aid certificate and Dinghy instructor qualification. The opportunities and connection that instructing has brought to me is really fantastic, and I would recommend it to anyone willing to spare some time for a fun week of sailing & friendship.

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