Year 10 student Miles Leah recently competed for Great Britain in the French Nationals sailing event, winning Gold in the open age category.
Miles was part of a team of ten experienced National Sailors from various Sailing Clubs in the south of England who travelled to Morgat in Brittany for the three-day Seascape 18 French National Sailing championships, competing against over 50 teams.
14-year-old Miles, who has been sailing since he was seven, formed the team of five adults and five juniors, sailing from Plymouth to Roscoff. These boats had been donated by the Youth Sailing Trust, the Royal Dart Yacht Club and a Beneteau Distributor.
Miles and his fellow competitors took part in six races. They gained four First position placings, one Third and one Fourth resulting in Gold Medals. The French Navy hosted a champagne event to present prizes.
Miles said: “To take part in the National championships was an incredible experience and challenge, but I realize how lucky I was to take part in the event. I just hope I will be able to get involved in more events like this one.”
Headmaster Lee Glaser commented: “This is an exceptional achievement, and I’d like to congratulate Miles on his determination and commitment in this tough competition.”
Miles’ main club is the RDYC (Royal Dart Yacht Club) who lent the boat for the event and also provided support. Miles is also a member of the Stoke Gabriel Boating Association and Paignton Sailing Club. Miles instructs at the RDYC and for the SGBA at their junior sailing courses, and he will be working there over the summer. He will also instruct for a week with the Youth Sailing Trust, providing opportunities for children who would not normally have access to the water.
He has competed in two previous National events and many Regional events, Regattas and club events. Miles hopes to compete over the summer in another National event and the Europeans in Slovenia.
