Ten-year-old sailor, Oliver Tiedemann, from Manly had the time of his life during the World Open Skiff Championships in Italy and ended fourth overall in the U12 group.

Oliver, a year-6 student at Orewa Primary School, won the National Open Skiff Regatta in Sardinia, Italy, a week before the World Championships.

Oliver competed against more than 50 talented young sailors from around the world in his age group.  

He raced in 14 races and received excellent results to end fourth in his age group - an incredible feat, as he ended eighth in the previous year’s competition in France.

As the judges awarded the top five sailors in each age group, Oliver beamed from ear to ear as he received an award, and stage time, after the races.

“There was very little wind on the water, but it was a tough week as the country was hit with an intense heatwave,” says dad Chris.

Oliver says, “It was very, very hot and the winds are very, very light and shifty. It felt as if we were floating rather than sailing.”

He says it was so hot that it felt as if he was sizzling on a frying pan!

His plans now? 

To continue training while having loads of fun!

He will also compete in several regattas across New Zealand, including the New Zealand nationals at the end of summer.

Oliver is also aiming to go to the World Sailing Championships in Italy again next year. 

He will also remain in his boat class for the next few years too.