Sailing fund helps Sophie steer course to Olympic dream

The Bosham Sailing Club Youth Sailing Fund has awarded 13-year-old Sophie Hempsell £500 to help her achieve her ambition to join the British sailing squad for the 2020 Olympics.
By The Newsroom
Published 2nd Nov 2011, 14:56 BST
Updated 7th Jun 2018, 19:57 BST

She is ranked in the top 40 Optimist sailors in the UK and the fund will help her compete internationally to gain experience.

Sophie started sailing aged seven and spends most weekends travelling to compete at high standards. Earlier this year she was fifth in the senior silver fleet at the Optimist national championships in Wales.

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The Bosham fund can assist any BSC cadet under 25 who needs help to proceed and improve their sailing experience.

The fund has assisted young sailors taking part in competitions like the Mirror World Championship, the Mini-Transat International, the 420 Ladies World and European Championships.

The fund relies on the generosity of Bosham SC members who contribute directly to the fund or arrange fundraising events.

Fund trustee John Hinton said: “Sophie has dedicated an incredible amount of time and effort to achieve these already high standards of sailing. We’re proud to help her on her way.”

Donations would be gratefully received to help other youngsters realise their sailing ambitions.

Related topics:Wales