Sailing: Young yachties' chance to learn from the best

HOME WATER: 49er ISAF World Champions Peter Burling and Blair Tuke are back in New Zealand to contest Oceanbridge Sail Auckland, which is hosted by their home training club, Royal Akarana Yacht Club.PHOTO/SAILING ENERGY A-190914SPLYACHT1

Peter Burling and Blair Tuke are sitting on top of the world after being crowned the 49er ISAF World Champions at Santander, Spain, two weeks ago.

The London Olympic silver medal winners and ISAF World Sailor of the Year nominees have been unstoppable since 2012 and are at the top of their game both in the 49er class and with their new team, Emirates Team New Zealand.

But their busy schedule hasn't stopped them entering Oceanbridge Sail Auckland, a regatta early next year hosted by their home training club, Royal Akarana Yacht Club.

"Oceanbridge Sail Auckland is an awesome event to be part of and we look forward to it each year," said Tuke. "It's always such a relaxed atmosphere but the racing is world class."

"Over the four day regatta you are guaranteed a range of weather conditions which always make it more exciting," said Burling.

Oceanbridge Sail Auckland gives young up and coming Olympic hopefuls the chance to race against the best in the world and each year Burling and Tuke provide a level of encouragement to the next generation.

"All Kiwi youth sailors should definitely come along to this regatta. We will definitely be available to give young sailors some tips," said Tuke.