Maroochy Club sailors, Jacinta and Elyse Ainsworth recently made an epic journey taking them half way across the world, flying to Argentina to take part in the 2012 MacLaren Laser 4.7 Youth World Championship held in Buenos Aires.

They were among 176 young sailors from 27 countries competing in 12 races over 6 days

The World Youth Championship is a restricted regatta with entry limited to the top young sailors from each country.

It was a great experience for these two dedicated young sailors, competing against some of the best Youth sailors in the world on the somewhat muddy waters of the Rio de la Plata estuary off the city of Buenos Aires. Light, shifty winds and tidal runs tested all competitors throughout the regatta.

Jacinta was placed 16th in the Girls Open Youth Competition, with Elyse placed 39th.

In the Under Sixteen Girls Division, Jacinta was placed a creditable Third, and Elyse was placed Eighth.

Congratulations to both young Maroochy sailors.

Further, Elyse had the honor at the opening ceremony of raising the Australian Flag.

The picture of Jacinta and Elyse was taken after they competed in and won the Pacer division of the recent Maroochy Head of the River Event, just before they headed for Argentina.

Photograph:Sue Hextell