Awakeri School’s Corrine Woolsey and Harper Brogden returned from their first AIMS Games with medals to proudly show their classmates.

Corrine Woolsey has been sailing for three years, following in her mother’s footsteps, and has proved to be a natural on the water. The 11-year-old returned to school with a silver medal around her neck.

“It was my first time at AIMS and my first-ever open fleet medal. The sailor who beat me was 13 points ahead, so won by a huge margin, but I am really happy with the silver medal.

“I had to race nine races, which was a bit of work, but the competition was really fun and really cool, and my parents are happy I got a medal,” said Corrine.

With a few regattas ahead over the summer season, Woolsey has her sights set on a future racing with a team on 50-foot keelers and navigating ocean races such as the Sydney to Hobart.

Corrine wasn’t alone in collecting AIMS medals, with Harper bagging four medals in the pool.

“I have been swimming for a few years and loved it. I started when I was five in our pool in the backyard, so Mum signed me up for the swimming club. I haven’t been for a while but do plan to go back soon.

“This AIMS Games was my first, so I am surprised at how well I did, but also happy.

“I swam four races and medalled in every one. I won golds in the 100m freestyle and the 50m breaststroke. My silver medals were for the 50m backstroke and the 50m freestyle,” said Harper.

For Harper, swimming is both a collective and individual effort.

While she enjoys the social aspect, the ability to isolate herself in the water when competing is what keeps her motivated. “I like swimming as it’s just me with myself, but I love the social side and competing with my friends.

“Competition is important as it helps me gauge where I am compared to others and race with my friends,” said Harper.

With only four races to complete, Harper spent plenty of time supporting her classmates and any other Whakatāne school she could find.

With both Corrine and Harper eligible for the AIMS Games for one more year, the next level of competition is closer than they might think. Both are intent on continuing with their chosen sports, and with their early success, they have bright futures ahead and the potential for more medals to come.