Page 14 - Kwasind Nov-Dec 2019

OLYMPICS HOPEFUL UPDATE
Our Olympic hopefuls were in high gear this summer. Here is an autumn update on their journeys to Tokyo 2020.
OLIVIA MEW
Olivia sails the RSX which is the Olympic Class windsurfer. Olivia first learned how to sail out of RCYC Junior Club at age 7, where she learned how to sail an Optimist. At age 15 she was hooked on windsurfing and progressed quickly onto the RSX at age 16. She has been sailing the RSX for 8 years and spends most of her summers training in the outer Harbour of Toronto. If you see a windsurfer with a Canadian flag in the lake it is likely her.
Olivia started off her summer training in Athens, Greece, receiving coaching from a former windsurfing World Champion and 4 time Olympian, Gelly Skarlatou. After a month of intensive training in Europe, Olivia felt well prepared to start competing at the 2019 Pan American Games in July.
During the games, Olivia performed well, sitting in 3rd place overall after the second day of racing. Once
the wind picked up later in the week, she lost ground against USA, Mexico and Brazil, finishing in 6th overall. This was Olivia’s first major games and she was proud to be representing Canada and RCYC at such a prestigious event. It was invaluable preparation for the 2020 Tokyo Olympics and will serve Olivia well moving forward in her campaign.
Olivia is now off to the RSX World Championships in Torbole, Italy, where she will have the opportunity to qualify Canada for the 2020 Olympic Games. Olivia’s extensive training plan over the next few months will require significant financial assistance as she is no longer receiving government funding, nor support from Sail Canada as she sails an unsupported class. To make a tax deductible donation, please go to https:// www.windathletes.ca/athletes/olivia-mew.
Any support is greatly appreciated.
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NOVEMBER/DECEMBER 2019 • KWASIND
SAILING