19/06/08 Petts Means Prizes - Windsurfing Championships

Nine-year-old Zara Petts, a pupil at St Edmund's School Canterbury, is riding the crest of a wave after impressing at the Royal Yacht Association National Junior Windsurfing Championships where she was singled out for a special award.

Taking particular pride in her performance was her trainer ­ older brother Andrew, a sixth-former at St Edmund's Senior School who has competed in international windsurfing competitions.

Featuring Britain's most promising windsurfing talent under the age of 17, the inaugural RYA junior nationals ­ at Whitwell on Rutland Water ­ saw youngsters compete over nine races in two days. Demonstrating skill and consistency against older entrants, Zara's efforts were rewarded with fourth overall ­ and first girl ­ in the Under 15's 3.5m Open Class. Her determination, sportsmanship and great potential also brought her a special commendation by the Race Committee.

Zara, who booked her place among the 62-strong field after successfully qualifying for her first national competition via the regional South East championships, is also enjoying team success in the RYA's grassroots windsurfing scheme, Team 15. Hythe Hotshots, her team, are the reigning champions and are top of the table again this year after two rounds.

Robert Bacon, Master of St Edmund's Junior School, said: "We are delighted for Zara, who is a very talented windsurfer and is doing fantastically well. Her achievements reflect the hard work and passion she puts into the sport and her dedication is a great example to others."

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