The RQYS in Many, QLD has started up a new foundation in the name of past commodore John Harrison to help support young sailors chasing an Olympic dream.

John Harrison was a celebrated life member of the Royal QLD Yacht Squadron, and past commodore of the club when he passed away in February this year. Managing the 1992, 1996 and 2000 Olympic sailing team campaigns, he was credited with being instrumental in Australia’s most successful Olympic campaign ever in 2000. In honor of the work he did and passion he expressed towards the development of junior and Olympic sailing, this foundation has been set up within the RQYS club.

“It is a great way to remember what he has done for the sport of sailing.” Said RQYS sailor, and Olympic gold medalist Mathew Belcher. “He was instrumental in getting our coach Victor Kovalenko to Australia back in 1997 and was an avid supporter of many RQYS sailors”

Funding young sailors travel expenses will be the major purpose of this foundation, providing the opportunity for these up-and-coming sailors to train in different countries, and compete against the worlds best. Bridging the financial gap between national level sailing, and international competitions is quite a challenge for many sailors (and their parents!), but already the foundation has begun sending these young sailors abroad in the hope that like Belcher, they too will one day bring home Olympic Gold for Australia.

You can find out more about the foundation by contacting the Royal Queensland Yacht Squadron.

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