For Kiama resident Andy Wharton, being on the water is a joy; taking the title of Asia Pacific National Championship Melges 24 feels even greater.
Subscribe now for unlimited access.
$0/
(min cost $0)
or signup to continue reading
Having begun sailing at eight years of age, Wharton said it is a dream come true.
“It really is a fantastic feeling,” he said.
“I had won a previous national title as a junior but that was over 30 years ago.
“I started sailing when I was young, and it’s really one of those sports you fall in love with. It’s nice to know you’re capable with the title.”
With a crew of five people, Wharton took part in the event which sailed from Blairgowrie Yacht Squadron.
From February 1 to February 4, the crew competed in ten separate races.
“The crew were highly experienced,” he said.
“Consistency was the biggest challenge. We only won race but were consistently high on the leaderboard.
“We won by one point, which is because we were consistent.”
It comes after Wharton took part in the national event last year, finishing with ninth place.