Linus Talacko to represent Australia at Optimist North-American Championships

A ST KILDA boy is sure to make a splash when he sets sail in Canada this month.

Linus Talacko, 14, will represent Australia at the Optimist North-American Championships in Canada this month.

A ST KILDA boy is sure to make a splash when he sets sail in Canada this month.

Linus Talacko, 14, will represent Australia at this year’s Optimist North-American Championships.

Linus was one of 12 Victorian sailors offered a spot on the Australia team and has been training five days a week in the lead up to event.

The freedom felt while out on the ocean drew the Year 8 St Michael’s Grammar student to the sport from a young age.

“My dad first took me out sailing with him when I was about five,” Linus said.

“From there I just kept going and started racing, which is really fun to me because I have a lot of mates that sail.”

Linus is a member of the Royal Brighton and Albert Park yacht clubs and the school’s sailing team.

The Optimist North-American Championships will be held in Canada from June 25 to July 2.

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, click here.