The Never Ending Story by Andrea Brewster

I thought that the Worlds in Perth was going to be my last Olympic Radial event. However 2 weeks into the new year I was informed that the British Radial trials were going to continue and that I was still eligible for selection. With some much needed financial help from my very generous and supportive family, I set about planning my training and racing schedule. After a couple of months of training in Palma it was time for the World Cup circuit to start.

My performance at the events was unfortunately pretty average and was no way near good enough to challenge for the Olympic spot. I was disappointed but happy to have seen my campaign through to the end. Ali Young was selected in the Radial to represent the British Olympic Team after an impressive string of performances which included a Gold medal at the recent Sail for Gold Regatta in Weymouth. I wish Ali the very best of luck in her Olympic debut!

I have now decided to hang up my hikers and retire from Radial sailing. The last 8 years have been an incredible experience. I have pushed myself further physically and mentally than I ever thought possible and have been lucky enough to travel the World and have made so many amazing friends along the way.

Since making the decision to retire, I have been exploring possibilities for my future. My priority for the moment is to get some cash coming in so I am still looking for coaching work. I have some coaching coming up which I am looking forward to doing to gain further experience. My Laser equipment has been selling really well but I do still have a complete boat and a few bits and pieces left which are advertised on the UKLA website.

Another possibility I have already started to explore is the new Women's Skiff the 49erFX which will be in for Rio 2016. I went RS800 sailing a few weekends ago and despite the capsizing and subsequent bruising, I absolutely loved it. This could be the start of a new and exciting challenge! Watching the Olympics always inspires me and I am looking forward to this time seeing it live as well as on TV. I will of course be supporting Team GB but I also wish all my foreign friends good luck!
AB