The Phenomenal Five: Gary Jobson presents five sailors who represent an impressive cross section of junior sailing in the United States today.
Since 2001, we’ve presented a Junior All-Star list of high-achieving young sailors from around the United States. Many of these sailors have become collegiate All Americans, Olympians, and champions in a variety of classes. There are many sailing opportunities for young people today thanks to dedicated parents, forward-thinking yacht clubs, and managers of high school sailing programs. Most of these young people get to know each other as they race throughout the country and the world. These are friendships that will last a lifetime, and the competition helps build skills and character.
In order to create our list, I review the results of dozens of junior regattas, consult with coaches, and look for special achievements that stand out. In truth, our list could easily number over 100 sailors. Here, we present five sailors who represent an impressive cross section of junior sailing in the United States today.
Nic B., 16, grew up watching his father, Ed, earn a Rolex Yachtsman of the Year title, win multiple world championships, and drive Alinghi to an America’s Cup win. That’s a big legacy to live up to, but Nic and his older brother, Ty, have been building their own strong resumes. In 2013, Nic won the U.S. Junior Singlehanded Championship for the Smythe Trophy and finished in the top 10 at the Laser Radial North Americans, Cressy Nationals, U.S. Youth Sailing Championship, and the Orange Bowl.
Nic started sailing Optimists out of the St. Petersburg (Fla.) YC and now races for Shorecrest Preparatory School. His main focus is on singlehanded classes, but he also likes the 29er and the club’s junior offshore boat, the Frers 30.
He credits his family for his success:
“My dad has shown me what is possible in the sport of sailing along with my mom—they have given me their total support. My brother, Ty, has been my training partner.”
Looking ahead, Nic says, “I hope that joining a sailing team will be a major part of my college experience.”
This article first appeared in the March/April 2014 issue of Sailing World and was posted April 22, 2014, at
http://www.sailingworld.com/racing/jobsons-junior-all-stars-2014
