Aspire – Aspiring 29er

Sailing Towards the World Stage

At just 15 years old, Henri and Miles Levenspiel have had a remarkable year sailing the 29er. Competing at the Australian 29er 2025 Championships, they not only secured the Junior Division title but also placed 6th overall against a field of older and more experienced competitors. Their performance has qualified them for selection to the Australian Sailing 2025 Youth Squad, a pathway designed to support elite youth sailors as they prepare for international competition.

Further, the opportunity has opened the door to represent Australia at the 29er World Championships in Portugal (August 2025). This international stage is a pivotal opportunity to gain experience and lay the foundation for future success.

Aspiring 29er

Henri and Miles have set their sights on an ambitious and exciting goal for 2025: to compete at the 29er World Championships in Portugal (August). This event is the premier event for 29ers and offers unparalleled opportunity to compete against the best young sailors in the world.

The leap from national to international sailing is immense. Larger fleets, stronger competition, and diverse conditions require meticulous preparation. For Henri and Miles, getting the opportunity to race internationally this year is not just about competing but also gaining invaluable experience to build a foundation for greater success in the coming years. This is not just about one event; it’s about a journey to becoming competitive at the highest level.

To achieve this, Henri and Miles plan to continue their rigorous training schedule, guided by some of Australia’s top sailing mentors. However, attending these international regattas involves significant expense. The extent of their participation will depend on the funds raised. With your support, they can embark on this path and represent Australia on the world stage. Together, we can make this a reality.

A bit about the 29er

The 29er skiff is a thrilling gateway to high-performance sailing, renowned for its speed, agility, and challenge. Designed by Julian Bethwaite, the 29er is a two-person, single trapeze skiff that combines a lightweight, hydrodynamic hull with fully battened sails, a self-tacking jib, and an asymmetric spinnaker. This setup allows the boat to reach exhilarating speeds, often surpassing the wind’s velocity. However, the 29er is not for the faint-hearted; its tippy nature and rapid acceleration demand exceptional athleticism, coordination, and teamwork from both crew and skipper. It’s a boat that pushes sailors to their limits, rewarding them with unmatched adrenaline and a profound sense of accomplishment.

More than just a racing machine, the 29er is a stepping stone to the Olympic-class 49er, making it a vital training ground for aspiring elite sailors. It teaches invaluable skills: explosive strength, precise manoeuvring, and seamless communication under pressure. Sailors in the 29er class develop a competitive edge and a resilience that extends beyond the water, preparing them for challenges in any arena. With its steep learning curve and high-performance culture, the 29er embodies the essence of modern sailing—fast, demanding, and deeply rewarding, making it an inspiration for youth sailors worldwide.

Guided by Champions

Henri and Miles’ success is no coincidence; it’s the result of countless hours of training, coaching, interstate competitions and determination. Over the past year, they have benefited from the guidance of some of Australia’s best, including:

Tess Lloyd OLY – 49er FX Olympian (Tokyo 2020)
Harry Mighell – Olympic Coach (49er FX, Tokyo 2020)
Jim Colley OLY – 49er Olympian (Paris 2024)
Harry Sly – Victorian 9er Head Coach

These role models have instilled in Henri and Miles the values of sportsmanship, resilience, and teamwork — qualities they exemplify as sailors and junior leaders at their local yacht club, Sorrento Sailing and Couta Boat Club

Where Support is needed

International competition brings significant expenses, all funds raised will go towards:

Australian Sailing Youth Squad costs
Overseas travel and accommodation for Henri and Miles
Chartering a 29er, entry fees and insurance for the World Championships
Coaching and RHIB charter during the World Championships
New sails, equipment and Australian Sailing gear

Your support will provide two young athletes gain invaluable experience on the international stage and inspire the next generation of Australian sailors.