Yellowwood Park sailor to represent SA in world champs
The 10-day regatta will have over 250 entries from 24 countries competing in eight multi-hull classes.
THE sails are set for Yellowwood Park sailor, Robbie Eduoard-Betsy and his Hobie 16 partner, Garth Louden who will jet off to Germany as the sole team representing the country in August at the prestigious Hobie World Cat from 9 August.
The 10-day regatta will have over 250 entries from 24 countries competing in eight multi-hull classes. The highly competitive and colourful event will be sailed on the North Sea, offshore of Noordwijk. “Garth and I have been to the World’s about 10 times to represent South Africa. We have visited places such as Australia, Dubai, Daaru Salaam, Zanzibar and Austria. It has been a wild ride out at sea and we are enjoying every moment,” said Robbie.
Robbie, who is also a seasoned Comrades runner, started offshore sailing in 1982 when he saw boats in action during a trip to Midmar Dam.
Robbie Eduord-Betsy and Garth Loudon in action
His wife Sharon used to sail with him until he met Garth. “He has been sailing his whole life and we’ve been partners for 18 years. It is quite an experience, sailing on our hobie. The best part of it is bouncing or surfing off the waves. It is the sort of freedom one has to experience to understand,” added Robbie.
Robbie Eduoard-Betsy and Garth Loudon can’t wait to take part in the German race
The sailing duo have their hearts set on first place. “We have been placed sixth twice in Guana and Dubai. This year we are going for gold.” So far, they have done well in their sailing career by winning the 2016 Hobie 16 European Masters Championship and scooping second place at the 2016 Hobie 16 South African Nationals and 2016 Hobie 14 South African Nationals
There is no stopping this seasoned sailor as he continues to sail closer to his number one dream and prove age is just a number when it comes to achieving your goals.
WATCH: The sailing duo in action
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