Nicola ‘Nicky’ Bethwaite

Sailing

Nicky was taught to sail by her father Frank in a Northbridge Junior, progressing through Flying Ants, and A-12s (single-handed scow with one sail and a trapeze). Nicky had a successful few years in Cherubs (including winning a World Championship with brother Julian) and then moved into yachts, competing in various offshore races.

When the first female sailing medal was introduced in the 470, Nicky teamed up with Karyn Gojnich and they represented Australia at the Seoul Olympics in 1988, finishing 6th.

From 1993 to 1998, she started competing in various small keelboat events, both fleet and matchracing.

Nicky teamed up with Jenni Bonnitcha and Kristen Kosmala in October 2000 in the Yngling, winning the NSW State Championships, Sydney International Regatta and the Australian Championships.

Nicky won the Yngling NSW State Championships in October 2003 with Kristen Kosmala and Kate McHugh Hage.

Karyn Gojnich and Nicky are again sailing together and with Kristen Kosmala the three are campaigning for the 2004 Athens Olympics in the Yngling class.