Description
Hi, I’m Carl Marshall and I have been selected to represent NZ in New Caledonia as part of the NZ Optimist development squad!
This is my story!
I began sailing when I was 8 years old. Ever since I started sailing I have had a dream to represent NZ in the Olympics for sailing. In 2018 I started competing in the NZ Open fleet and after just 2 ranking regattas I have achieved a rank of top 5 Opti sailors in my age group.
This ranking means I have been selected to represent NZ as part of the NZIODA 2018 Development Teams. I am so excited to be a representative sailor for my country.
I come from a large household of eight boys. My mum and dad have taught us all independence. On sailing days, I get up, get dressed and head over to the yacht club. I rig my boat attend briefing and training, and then race in the afternoons.
As one of eight boys though, while my parents support me with my passion and have bought me a second-hand boat and sails, I really want to pay my own way on this trip so that my brothers don’t have to miss out on their dreams. I am busking – playing piano and I am selling unique artwork to raise money to fund the trip to Noumea in October 2018 with the NZ Opti Development Team. My goal is to raise $10,000.
My Goals:
I am still young, but I know I want to compete in the Olympics and hopefully one day, in the Americas Cup. I am not 100% sure how to get there, but this squad is a step down the development pathway.
Short term
- To represent NZ well at the Noumea Regatta in October 2018. As one of the youngest competing I will want to do my best and to place well against those in my age group.
- 2018 I want to place in the top 30 in the North Island Champs
Medium term
- In 2019 I want to place in the top 5, 12 years old and continue as part of the NZ Development Squad.
- In 2019 I want to place in the top 20 nationally against all ages (Opti competitors usually sail until they 15)
Long term
- 2020 I want to compete and place in the top 10 in the Australian Opti Championships
- 2020 I want to be placed in the top 5 and attend the World Championships representing NZ
- 2024 I want to represent NZ in the Olympics
