Sailing Club: Welfare Officer

Sailing has been a huge part of my first year at UCL, from attending regular sessions to competing as a team racer for UCL Purple at BUCS. From my very first session, I was welcomed into a community that is not just about racing and training but about friendship, support, and shared experiences. Being part of this club has introduced me to incredible people, pushed me outside my comfort zone, and taught me new skills on and off the water. Having never set a wet-suited foot into a firefly before UCL, and being relatively new to dingy sailing, my growth on the water is contributed to all of the opportunities to learn by crewing for different helms which, hopefully, have not been too testing on their patience...

One of the biggest lessons I’ve learned through sailing is that success on the water isn’t just about skill—it’s about the team behind you. A strong, supportive environment onshore translates directly to how we perform together offshore. Whether it’s helping someone rig a boat for the first time, offering encouragement after a tough race, or simply ensuring everyone feels included in post-sailing socials, these moments define what makes UCL Sailing so special.

I’ve always been on the competitive side, and I love the challenge that sailing brings—whether it’s the fast-paced tactical battles of team racing or the constant drive to improve. But Beyond the competition, what also makes a difference is the camaraderie within the team. I hope I do not sound too tack-y, but the best performances come when we