Sailing National
Taupō Sailing Teams Show True Spirit at NZ Nationals
While the weather didn’t exactly roll out the red carpet, Taupō’s young sailors brought sunshine of their own to the 2025 New Zealand Teams Sailing Nationals, held in New Plymouth from April 22–26. Over five days (well, four if you don’t count the one that blew away), more than 200 teenage sailors across 29 teams and four fleets—Gold, Silver, Bronze, and Emerald—took to the water for a staggering 273 races of tactical brilliance, team grit, and the occasional dramatic collision.
Representing Taupō were two proud teams: one from Tauhara College led by Ruby Brasell, and a combined Tauhara College and Taupo-nui-a-Tia College team captained by Flynn Harrington. These young sailors weren’t just competing; they were learning, laughing, leading, and—by all accounts—earning enormous respect from officials, umpires, organisers, and fellow sailors alike.
The combined team may not have notched up a win on the scoreboard, but what they gained in experience, resilience, and team spirit was far more valuable. They never gave up—pushing themselves every single race to improve on the last. Facing some tough competition, they stayed positive, supported each other, and walked away with their heads held high and a deepened love for the sport. Nationals can be a baptism by fire—and they sailed right through it with courage and heart.
Behind every great crew is a land-based dream team, and Taupō had theirs on lock. Camp mother Nicola Hancock kept everyone fuelled and smiling, while Shane Hancock was the tireless Beach Manager. Stepping in as coach at Nationals was Zoey Brasell, who shared her experience, tips and advice. Scotty Brasell and Nadine McDonald ran one of the crucial on-water changeover boats like clockwork, and Tash Brasell—superstar Team Manager—coordinated all 29 teams and over 200 sailors to make sure everyone got out onto the water at the right time, every time. No small feat, and one she handled with precision and skill.
And none of this would have been possible without our coach throughout the season, Jason Butterfield. His steady guidance, endless encouragement, and tactical knowledge helped shape these sailors into the teams they are today. Though he couldn't be at Nationals, his influence was felt in every race. Thank you, Jason, for everything you’ve done for the squad this season.
Special mention must go to Minou Martin, our intrepid German international student, who set herself the goal of learning to sail in New Zealand—and not only achieved it but raced at Nationals. Danke, Minou, for being such a brilliant part of the team. Safe travels and happy sailing!
As always, the real treasure in a week like this is found off the water—old friendships rekindled, new ones forged, and countless memories made. Sailors may be fierce competitors between the buoys, but the camaraderie once ashore is unmatched.
A huge thank you to Ann Hatch and the phenomenal team at New Plymouth Yacht Club for delivering a stellar event. And a heartfelt thank-you to Lake Taupo Yacht Club—the backbone of youth sailing in Taupo. Their ongoing support, provision of boats, and coordination of team sailing in Taupō are what make opportunities like this possible for our young sailors.
Next year’s Nationals head north to Parua Bay in Whangārei—and yes, our Taupō teams are already plotting their course. But for now, it’s time for a well-earned rest before winter sports take the stage. Sailors, you’ve done Taupō proud.
