Joshua Galland eyes international sailing success

CARRUM’S Joshua Galland is targeting international success after a whirlwind year of achievement in sailing.

Year 12 student Josh Galland has attained a scholarship at the Victorian Institute of Sport. Picture: Valeriu Campan

THERE is no better feeling for 18-year-old Joshua Galland than being out in the wind with the sea splashing in his face.

The Carrum teen this month became Victoria’s youth champion in the 29er skiff dinghy class and has his eyes set on competing in California later this year.

The past 12 months have been a whirlwind of success for the keen sailor, who attained a scholarship with the highly-esteemed Victorian Institute of Sport after he won bronze in this year’s national youth championships.

Having recently teamed up with Ethan Hosking and with plans to transition to the Olympic class shortly, Joshua isn’t ready to give the sport up any time soon.

“I really love the speed, excitement and rush of sailing in heavy winds,” he said.

“It’s also not like most sports — sailing has a big focus on mental preparation and tactics … it’s basically like playing chess.”

As well as completing year 12 this year, Joshua will train three to four times a week on top of cardio and strength training to keep up to speed in the sport.

He will need to get stronger and fitter as he progresses to sail bigger and faster yachts, but says he’s simply taking it one step at a time.

Joshua Galland is this week’s Mordialloc Chelsea Leader Junior Sports Star.

Leader Local Sports Stars medallists will be named in seven categories including juniors, teams, individuals, and encouragement.

The program is now a national celebration, and junior category winners will be judged for national awards.

Cash prizes as well as vouchers from our sponsor, Sportsmart, are up for grabs.

For full details and to nominate an athlete, go to localsportsstars.com.au