SAMOA SAILOR LEISINA RASMUSSEN EXCELS AT ILCA 4 CHAMPIONSHIPS IN AUSTRALIA
Leisina Rasmussen, Samoan sailor during the 2024 ILCA 4 youth championships. (Photo: Jack Fletcher for Down Under Sail)
Leisina Rasmussen, a 15-year-old sailor from Samoa, recently showcased her sailing prowess at the ILCA 4 National and Oceanic Championships held in Adelaide, Australia in January 2024. Having spent six years honing her skills in smaller opti boats, she recently transitioned to the more challenging International Laser Class Association dinghies (ILCAs).
Leisina's participation in the event was part of a solidarity program aimed at promoting female participation in the ILCA class. Alongside seven other girls, she benefited from the guidance of coach Matilda, who provided continuous support and encouragement throughout the competition.
Securing accommodation and making the journey to Adelaide proved challenging, but with the support of the Samoa Sailing Association, particularly President Raema von Reiche, and the hospitality of Vincent Peter and his wife Krysia, Leisina overcame these hurdles.
Accustomed to sailing in the cozy lagoon of her home club, Apia Yacht Club, Leisina faced a stark contrast in Adelaide. Open ocean, big waves, and cold water presented a formidable challenge. Competing against 70 ILCA 4s, a significant increase from her usual 10-boat races, added to the complexity.
The race conditions were demanding, with a one-hour race course and two to three races per day. Leisina navigated through challenging weather, including hot, windless days and unpredictable shifts in wind patterns, all of which required strategic adjustments. The race on January 6th was canceled due to lightning and lack of wind, showcasing the unpredictable conditions the sailors encountered.
Despite these challenges, Leisina completed 10 out of 12 races, finishing 27th in the silver fleet and 62nd overall. Her performance exceeded expectations, and she expressed that the regatta opened her eyes to her untapped potential and reignited her passion for sailing.
Beyond the competitive aspect, Leisina highlighted the exposure gained from the championship, boosting her confidence and leaving her with valuable memories and lasting friendships. The experience has set her on a path towards a new ambitious goal in her sailing journey.
In a message to fellow young sailors and athletes, Leisina encouraged them to embrace every opportunity, believe in themselves, and be prepared to surpass their own expectations. She expressed deep gratitude to those who made her participation possible, including Raema, Vincent, and others behind the scenes, as well as her club members, concluding with a heartfelt "Fa’afetai tele lava!" in appreciation of the support she received. Leisina's journey stands as an inspiration to aspiring sailors, emphasizing the transformative power of perseverance, passion, and seizing opportunities in the world of competitive sailing.