Rudy sails to third national title
Durban North resident off to Laser World Champs in Canada in June.
THERE aren’t enough superlatives to describe local sailor, Rudy McNeill’s efforts at this year’s SA Laser Nationals Championships.
The Durban North resident sailed to his third national title, winning seven out of the eight races at the champs. It was a welcome return for the former Northwood School pupil, who spent most of last year on terra firma due to injury.
McNeill’s triumph was preceded by winning the KZN Open Provincials in Richards Bay the weekend before. He has now set his sights on next year’s Rio Olympics.
“I was confident going into the champs but I was determined to win. My nerves were right up there from the first race. There were times I had to dig deep. Before the champs started I had written my name on my mast, and it was perfectly placed throughout the races. Every time I felt low I’d look up at my name on the starboard side and it became my mantra. It was a reminder of who I am, where I came from, and what I can do.
“I spent most of last year out with a broken heel, so it was fantastic feeling winning the champs on home soil. It was also a huge confidence booster for me ahead of the World Laser Champs in June. I felt good, and looking ahead I feel faster and more mature out on the water, and there’s a distinct possibility of qualifying for Rio,” he said.
His younger brother, Michael, and Rudy’s training partner finished in 10th place.
“I’m stoked for him. We trained really hard leading up to the champs, and this was a chance for him to learn and grow. He has set his sights on qualifying for the 2020 Olympics. I’m sure he will get there,” he said.
McNeill now sets sail for Canada in June for the world champs, where he will be joined by his younger brother again.
“I sailed in Canada when I was in competing at the junior sailing champs so I’m not treading on unfamiliar water. This is my chance to reach my dream of qualifying for the Olympics, and I could not pick a better partner than my brother to back me up.
“We’ll be feeding off each other’s energies and motivating each other,” he said.
