Top three sailing accomplishments:
2 x Opti national champion.
Waszp youth national champion.
Making the 2024 youth worlds team.
How did you get into sailing?
I guess I got into sailing through my family and where we live. When my dad was younger, he was a very good sailor, winning multiple nationals, so I think he was keen for me to have a go and see if I liked it. The other reason I got into sailing was because we live right next to Lyttelton Harbour, with the yacht club being only a couple of minutes away from my house. My family is also very big on boating, so sailing ties into all of that. From there, I joined the club and learned to sail, progressing from the Opti to the P-Class, and then to the boats I sail now.
What is your favourite food after a long day on the water?
I would have to say a Lewis Road Choccy milk with a side of wine gums.
Where is your favourite place to sail?
My favourite place to sail would have to be Maraetai Yacht Club because that's where I won my first Opti nationals.
What is your favourite thing to do when not sailing?
When I have some free time, I normally play a round of golf or go fishing.
Who are your role models?
There are obvious people that I look up to as role models, like Peter Burling or Nathan Outteridge, because of what they have achieved. But there are also people I have looked up to and followed since my time in the Opti class, like Seb [Menzies] and George Lee [Rush].
What is the best thing about sailing your youth class boat?
The racing side of the 29er, especially in the pressure events like the trials because it puts all your hard work into 12 or so races.
What do you hope to achieve in sailing in the next 12 months?
In the next 12 months, the biggest regatta will be the youth worlds. I want to go there and sail better than ever, hoping that it will bring some good results. I also aim to learn how to sail properly in strong overseas fleets.
How will you prepare for the youth sailing world championships?
I will be flying up to Auckland every weekend to train with Sean. During the week, I will focus on fitness and nutrition.
What are your sailing career goals?
Some of my goals include getting into a foiling team, whether that's the America's Cup or SailGP, either in a sailing or shore role. I would also like to win a world championship in any class of boat.
What was the proudest moment of your sailing career to date?
My proudest sailing moment would have to be winning the 2024 youth trials because of how little time Sean had to learn to crew, and how well we worked together as a pair. Being able to win and remain consistent was a pretty cool feeling.
Sean Kensington and Will Leech. Photo / Jacob Fewtrell Media