Rowena ‘Rene’ Chapman nee Wilmot

Sailing

Rowena Chapman represented Australia three times at the Women's Sailing World Championships.

She raced in the 420 class in 1979 and 1981 and in the Open Cherub class in 1978.

Growing up on the waterfront of Middle Harbour in one of Australia's great sailing families, it was natural she would take to boats.

Rene's formative years on the water were spent at Middle Harbour Skiff Club, Middle Harbour Yacht Club and Northbridge Sailing Club. Seasons were spent competing in Club and State Championships, and travelling each Christmas to the National Titles in whichever State hosted the regatta. Middle Harbour was home to many sailing champions.

Rene says they did of course find time for dancing. She represented Australia in 1980 in Ballroom Dancing. Their mother celebrated 60 years of dance teaching in 2003, and is their champion!