Getting ready for the big sailing test

The KZN Regionals yacht race is set to take place off the coast of Durban during the National Women’s Day long weekend. This event, hosted by Point Yacht Club, will feature a fleet of elite sailing vessels preparing for the big test. Among the participants are two dozen smaller Olympic class dinghies, with a notable third comprising young, aspiring female sailors.

One such promising talent is Daniela Cantarelli, a Karkloof native who has been sailing for nearly a decade. Cantarelli made history in the ILCA Nationals held in Langebaan by becoming the first youth female to cross the finish line. Despite juggling school commitments, she has managed to carve out time to pursue her passion for sailing, including competing in the Richards Bay Grand Slam and the 9-Hour endurance race at HMYC.

McNeill, a renowned ILCA sailor with multiple national and regional titles, is preparing for the KZN Regionals and has high hopes for his team's success. Two other sailors to watch out for are Thomas Funke, who recently returned from the 505 World Championships, and Luke Wagner, who teamed up with McNeill in the ORC Nationals.