Teen Sailing Star Builds Model Yacht During Lockdown
Bea West, just 14, has already represented Great Britain on the water. She competed in the 2021 Optimist Team Centenary Regatta on Lake Garda, Italy. A proud member of Newhaven and Seaford Sailing Club, Bea’s passion for sailing goes far beyond racing.
Lockdown Creativity Sparks Model Boat Project
When lockdown hit, Bea’s school set an open brief for a creative project. Bea chose to build an International One Metre (IOM) model yacht herself. The challenge was tough but perfect for her sailing obsession.
“I built the yacht in my grandfather’s workshop. It was very precise and tricky work,” Bea said. “Gluing each individual mahogany strip took a great deal of time and concentration.”
Community Joins Forces to Support Bea’s Hobby
Bea’s grandfather, Noel West from Piddinghoe, revealed the project’s high cost. “The keel alone can cost £300 and a completed model can reach £2,000.”
Luckily, the IOM-GBR sailing community rallied behind Bea. Donating parts like the keel, rudder, mast, sails, and radio control gear, they helped her finish the model during the six-month lockdown effort.
Heartfelt Thanks with a Lifeboat Donation
To thank the generous IOM sailors, Noel promised a donation to the RNLI. Bea and her grandfather visited Newhaven Lifeboat Station to present £250 to volunteer crew, including Coxswain Lewis Arnold.
Lewis praised Bea’s dedication: “Her IOM rigging is weathering the storm well. We are so impressed with her commitment and hard work.”
Bea hopes to represent her country once more, now sailing a Laser. “It’s really nice knowing the Lifeboat is there when we’re out practising and racing.”
Lewis added, “We’re very grateful for their support. It helps us save lives at sea. We wish Bea every success with her sailing.”
