“Sailing has improved my communication skills. I am better at listening to people and have learned to be more patient to work effectively in a team.”
Elayra started sailing in Year 7, when she started at GCA with encouragement and support from her parents. The sailing programme offered by GCA was a significant motivating factor for Elayra.
“In Year 11, I joined the senior girls sailing team. My sailing commitments encourage me to improve my time management and be more disciplined. I had to find the right balance to focus on my studies whilst getting as much sailing in as possible. In the future I hope to study for a career in the marine industry or to become a pilot in the aviation industry.”
Elayra became a qualifed Dinghy Instructor in 2025 and now helps coach beginners how to be safe on the water and enjoy sailing. She gained her RYA Competent Crew qualification during a 5 day voyage with Ocean Youth Sailing Trust and as part of the senior girls sailing team, she trains and races on a variety of keelboats in the Solent. Off the water, she has taken every opportunity to expand her marine industry knowledge and experience, meeting truly inspirational sailors who have endured and achieved impressive results on the water.
