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Star on the ocean wave

14/ 5/2008

ADAM Purcell finished his 2007 windsurfing season in some style, with a Blue Peter badge to show for his efforts.

The badge was given to Purcell after his team, Team Astbury, won the Team 15 Champions Cup at Rutland in October last year.

Team 15 is a national Royal Yachting Association scheme aimed at encouraging young children to take up windsurfing, learn a new skill and compete in regional racing.

Team Astbury have been regional champions for the last six years and Purcell has been part of that team for the last three.

The Fallibroome High School student has been selected for the West Zone RYA training squad - a highly sought-after place and this year he hopes to be selected for the national youth training squad.

Purcell’s aim is competing in the 2010 Youth Olympics, the first games to include the sport, and he has hopes of making the 2016 Olympic squad. In the nearer future, he hopes to represent his country at the Youth World Championships in Poland in August.

Commitment, dedication and a huge amount of training are needed in order to achieve these goals. Last year his hard work paid off as he won the National Inland Series in his 5.5m sail class and the Youth and Masters National championship.

His 2008 season has also got off to a good start as he has been awarded a grant from the John Merrick Sailing Trust, established in memory of an exceptional sailor, in order to help young sailors in their attempt to be top of their chosen discipline.

Any local businesses looking to sponsor Purcell should email richard@stonehillquality.com