02 23 2009

First Newfoundlander's selected to Canada's National Saling Team

Newfoundland Sailors Exceed Expectations At First International Regatta: Become First Newfoundlanders Selected to Canada's National Sailing Team

Newfoundlanders Jonathan Ladha and Daniel Inkpen have finished competing at the Rolex Miami Olympic Classes Regatta in Miami, Florida. The Rolex Miami OCR’s solid 20-year track record also has figured in to attracting this year’s fleet of 444 sailors from 41 countries who consider this their first milestone competition in a four-year cycle, one that culminates in July 2012 with the Summer Olympic Games.

Competing in the 49er Class, Ladha and Inkpen were in a fleet of 22 boats with sailors from around the world including former Olympic and World medalists. Ladha and Inkpen finished in 12th place overall, a remarkably strong showing given this was their first international competition in the class. Following a slow start, they gradually adjusted to racing in a large fleet and against a higher level of competition. They completed the regatta with three consecutive top 10 finishes and had two first place finishes during the regatta.

This week, Ladha and Inkpen were advised by the Canadian Yachting Association that they have qualified for the Canadian Sailing Team and will be supported by Sport Canada as carded athletes. They are the first sailors from Newfoundland and Labrador to reach this level. In order to continue their rapid development, they will be participating in several regattas in Europe over he coming months before returning to Newfoundland.

Jon Ladha says, "We are fast, but we need to make better decisions when around lots of boats. We got better as the event went on, and we're grateful to be the first Newfoundlanders to sail for the Canadian Sailing Team. This definitely raises our personal goals and expectations on and off the water."

Ladha and Inkpen are back home in St. Phillips preparing for their European Competition in the spring. For more information contact Tom Hickey, 682-7147.