Ben Hinks - Sailing

I grew up in Adelaide near the beach and started sailing at the age of 5 through my dad’s interest in the sport. Starting off travelling around the state to the many clubs along the coast this was a great opportunity to learn and make friends that made the sport more enjoyable. The progression into travelling interstate for events continued to create more learning experiences and made friendships and connections with people from other states. This also gave me opportunities to qualify to compete overseas which was a long-term goal when first starting. Winning a National Championship and racing at the 2022 Youth World Championship have been a highlight of my Sailing so far. I am now racing in the 470 Mixed class which is a new event replacing the separate male and female 470 events at the Olympics.

The skills I’ve learnt in sailing, include problem solving and decision making. These skills have helped me to do well in other areas of my life, including work and study. What I enjoy most about the sport of sailing is the forever changing racetrack. With changing wind, waves, course lengths and other boats, every race is going to play out somewhat differently.

The best thing about being a SASI Athlete 

Having access to great support and being able to meet and work with athletes from other sports.

My favourite food to fuel me as an Athlete 

Weetbix.

My favourite movie

Top Gun Maverick

My favourite colours 

Orange and Navy Blue

My sporting hero and why

Matthew Belcher – As he is a sailing legend and has been a great role model for the sport and Australian athletes.

My favourite posession    

My Boat, Bike or Windsurfer

The sporting activity I most like performing   

A Reach with the Kite (Quickest Angle you can sail on a boat)

If I wasn’t doing my current sport I would like to be

A cyclist, as this is one of the sports I enjoy in my spare time.

The most important things in life

Have fun, and be passionate about what you do.

My Ambassador Activity tip

Find an activity you enjoy and make some friends so you can stay active together.

My favourite way to keep active 

Going sailing, windsurfing, cycling or hiking just to name a few.

The sport I like watching the most 

Sailing or Test Cricket

What sporting success looks like 

Consistent results, enjoying the sport and Good Sportsmanship.