DORCHESTER sailor Jack Cookson has a big 2015 ahead of him following his victory in the RYA Youth National Championships.

Cookson is now set to represent his country at two major events later this year after a brilliant performance on home waters last week.

Having seen off more than 60 other competitors to win the Laser Radial class, Cookson gained selection for the EUROSAF Championships in Brest, France this summer.

On top of that, Cookson will sail for Great Britain at the World Championships in Canada.

The youngster was understandably thrilled to secure first place in the youth nationals, which were hosted by the Weymouth and Portland National Sailing Academy.

Racing took place over five days with very challenging conditions on the water.

A severe lack of wind on Thursday, and a blanket of fog, severely impacted the competition.

But the sailors maintained their enthusiasm for this annual event and took to the water as soon as conditions allowed.

Cookson triumphed having participated in a series of qualifiers and undertaken a strict training regime during the winter.

And he would like to thank all of his sponsors for their continued commitment and belief in him as he moves forward.

  • PORTLAND Harbour Authority (PHA) has provided the island’s gig rowing club with funding for training equipment.

A sponsorship deal between the two has allowed the club to purchase two rowing machines.

Helen Peach, Portland Gig Rowing Club’s fundraising officer thanked PHA deputy harbour master Claire Spencer for the continued support.

The rowing machines will be a great asset to the club for training and will assist members in increasing their general fitness.

Spencer officially handed over the rowing machines at last weekend’s Fish & Ships event.

During the event, the club displayed ‘Chesil’, a traditional Cornish Pilot Gig, members discussed the sport with visitors, allowed people to use the rowing machines and gave opportunities to row within Portland marina.

The club also ran a fundraising stall to help with their running costs. Visit portlandgigrowingclub.co.uk for more details.