Double nationals triumph for Westlake sailors

Westlake Boys and Girls High Schools’ sailing teams both won their national secondary school championships at Algies Bay last month.

The victories were the first for the boys school since 2001 and for the girls school since 2012.

The boys took out their title in head-tohead races against Rangitoto College after the schools were locked together on an equal number of wins.

Team captain Lucas Day said Westlake had to battle the conditions more than their opponents at times.

“It was pretty all over the show, real gusty and shifty which made it difficult to stay in front of other boats.”

Westlake Girls won a head-to-head against Nelson’s Nayland College to finish top of the girls teams.

The signs are good for future success, too.

Two of the eight-strong team are year 12s, while the rest are are in years 9 and 10.

One of the year 12s is New Zealand rep sailor Daniella Wooldridge who, as captain, helps guide the junior members of the team.

“We have a great future ahead with so many great young sailors coming through,” team manager Paula Satterthwaite said.

The victories earned both schools qualification for the Inter-Dominion regatta in Sydney later this year.

Takapuna Grammar also performed well, placing fourth overall with its mixed team.