Top three sailing accomplishments:
Winning the girls' 420 at the 2024 New Zealand youth championships.
Winning the interdoms with Westlake Girls High School in 2023.
Third girls at the 2021 Optimist national championships.
How did you get into sailing?
I decided to try sailing because both of my parents had competed in sailing and it looked like fun. I did learn to sail at age 8 and I have enjoyed it ever since.
What is your favourite food after a long day on the water?
After a long day on the water, I really enjoy a big bowl of hot chips.
Where is your favourite place to sail?
I loved sailing on Sydney Harbour at the Interdominion Secondary School team racing champs last year.
What is your favourite thing to do when not sailing?
When I am not sailing, I love to go to gymnastics to keep my strength up as well as socialising with my friends.
Who are your role models?
My dad, Annabel, Alex Maloney, Polly Powrie and Jo Aleh.
What is the best thing about sailing your youth class boat?
Being able to share the experience with someone else as part of a team.
What do you hope to achieve in sailing in the next 12 months?
To train hard, do the best I can and make sure I am enjoying my sailing and having fun.
How will you prepare for the youth sailing world championships?
By getting myself as sailing fit as I can and mentally preparing for the event.
What are your sailing career goals?
To keep enjoying the sport and having fun with good results along the way. What was the proudest moment of your sailing to date?
Winning races and the girls' division [with Tessa Clinton] at the 2024 youth trials after only four weeks of sailing together.
Jess Handley and Tessa Clinton. Photo / Jacob Fewtrell Media