The Air Force sailing team made waves at this year’s Interservice Sailing Regatta, clinching the coveted top individual title against fierce competition from Navy and Army.
The Army sailing team won the regatta based on overall team performance, with Air Force second.
Held over four days on Sydney Harbour, the event showcased Air Force’s skill, teamwork and tenacity – proving once again that the aviators can hold their own on the water as well as in the skies.
With champion Olympic sailor Jim Colley in their corner, the Air Force team sailed into the regatta with a blend of seasoned veterans and eager newcomers.
“One of our biggest strengths is consistency,” Corporal Leesa Renehan said.
“We’ve got a strong group of returning sailors who pass down their knowledge, giving us a solid foundation to build on each year. There’s a healthy rivalry, but at the end of the day, we all respect each other’s dedication.”
That strength shone through as the three-boat team navigated tricky conditions – ranging from near-still mornings to wet, choppy afternoons – outpacing their rivals with precision and adaptability.
Colley’s coaching was a game-changer, offering strategic insights that kept the lead Air Force boat ahead of the pack.
“His advice on reading wind conditions in real time and adjusting our tactics was spot-on,” Corporal Renehan said.
“It helped us stay competitive, especially when it mattered most.”
The regatta wasn’t without its challenges.
Wednesday’s wild weather turned the deck into a slippery proving ground, with the team sliding around.
Off the water, Group Captain Tony Bull seized slower moments to run impromptu whiteboard sessions, sharing strategies with beginners and reinforcing the team’s tight-knit bond.
“Moments like that really bring us together,” Corporal Renehan said.
“You bond through the competition and the shared experience of overcoming challenges.”
While Army sailed away with the overall trophy, thanks to disciplined performances across multiple races, Air Force’s individual boat win was celebration-worthy.
“There’s a healthy rivalry, but at the end of the day, we all respect each other’s dedication,” Corporal Renehan said.
“The regatta is about personal growth and strengthening bonds across the services.”
Many of the sailors found their sea legs through Air Force opportunities like the She Sails event in Canberra – an initiative that sparked Corporal Renehan’s own sailing journey in 2022.
“I was looking for a challenge after COVID,” she said.
“That event opened up a world of adventure and camaraderie I hadn’t expected. Just go for it. Whether you’re a beginner or a pro, there’s a place for you. The skills, friendships and experiences are worth every second.”
She joined the ADF Sailing Association’s interservice carnival later that year, hooked by the mix of technical skill and teamwork that mirrors military life.
With mentorship from seasoned ADF sailors and hands-on experience, the team’s growth reflects a broader Air Force ethos: discipline, flexibility and a drive to excel.
“It’s an opportunity to challenge yourself and be part of something special,” Corporal Renehan said.
Looking ahead to 2026, the Air Force team is already plotting their return.
“We’ll keep building on our strengths – passing on knowledge, refining strategies and encouraging more to join,” Corporal Renehan said.
“There’s a solid core in place and with more training, we’ll come back even stronger.”
For those on the fence about next year’s event, the message from Corporal Renehan is clear: “Just go for it. Whether you’re a beginner or a pro, there’s a place for you. The skills, friendships and experiences are worth every second.”
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