Bilger wins U-23 windfoiling world title
- Dave Worsley
- Sep 15
- 1 min read
New Zealand windfoiler Stella Bilger has fended off nerves and her rivals race to victory at the under-23 world championships in Portimao, Portugal.
The 20-year-old Aucklander left the fleet in her wake in the second of two medal races, splitting from her rivals and holding on over the final to secure gold.
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There was a New Zealand one-two in the category, with teammate Aimee Bright taking silver.
The four sailor final featured Bilger, Bright, and Norwegian duo Mina Mobekk who claimed bronze and Maya Gysler.
In the opening medal race, Bilger finished second to Bright, leaving her needing victory in the decider to claim the world title.
Pilger is part of a windfoiling programme led by Paris Olympians Josh Armit and Veerle ten Have.
"Things seemed to get better every day of the regatta. I had so many calls with Mum, Dad and my sister, just talking through different mindsets and ways of approaching races," Bilger said.
"A lot of credit goes to Snowy (coach Paul Snow-Hansen), Amy, and Veerle back home - the whole squad is just amazing," she said.
Bilger's grandfather Jock represented New Zealand in the Flying Dutchman class at the 1972 and 1976 Olympics, while dad Jon sailed the 470 at the 1992 Games and was later heavily involved in the America's Cup.
