17/09/2022
NEWS FLASH!
Just 6 years ago, a beautiful Ukrainian lady started her sailing journey. Who would have ever believed she would twice be our national champion, be a national medalist in a different class of boat (Platu 25), compete in Ukraine's first major sailing competition (European Championships), win international medals representing Ukraine abroad and represent Ukraine at 10 different yacht clubs around the world.
This year amongst the war, she has raised millions in funds for the armed services and humanitarian relief, organised the purchase of key military equipment for Ukrainian forces, ensured the Ukrainian heating season would go ahead, defended Ukraine's national gas interests against Russian aggression, worked endlessly to ensure her business plus staff are secured and safe as well as supported clients whose infrastructure and businesses have been destroyed by the Russians.
Amongst all of this, she found the courage and strength to not only go to the SB20 Class World Championships hosted by SB20 Ireland but be the only Ukrainian team, ensuring our great nation was represented in even the toughest of times.
Sailing with fellow SB20 Ukraine sailor Brearey Sailing who has made Ukraine his home, and 2 British sailors, including, for the first time in Julia's career, a second female on board. As a new team who hadn't raced together and with the distraction of what is happening in our homeland, the week had ups and downs for the team who weren't even expected to be there.
None the less, Julia's fortitude, unwavering determination and her ability to be like no other shone through. And in the toughest of times, in the hardest period of Ukraines's modern history, Julia and her team successfully won the female trophy, making Julia Freespirit the FEMALE WORLD CHAMPION. UKRAINE HAS A WORLD CHAMPION.
Yet again Ukrainians showing the world they are unbreakable.
Julia has been a dominating female force within the SB20 Class for many years, and its great that this year she was able to be rewarded for being such a strong, skilled, amazing and beautiful lady, racing against some of the best professional female sailors in the world, including a Volvo ocean race yachtswoman.
Well done Julia, Sam and the team, we know it wasn't easy and there will be many more success and more trophies along your journey! Thank you for your courage, strength and support to Ukraine.
Glory to Ukraine.
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