Sophie Jackson – On the Road to the 2028 Olympics

Hi, I’m Sophie Jackson, a determined 470 sailing athlete representing Australia on the path to the 2028 Olympic Games.

I’m a 25-year-old 470 sailing skipper from Mornington, Victoria, and now also from Fremantle, Western Australia! I’m a 470 Australian National Champion, a 470 Oceania Champion, and striving towards becoming an Olympic champion. I’m backed by the Western Australian Institute of Sport, with former 470 World #1 Chris Charlwood coaching me in WA, as well as the Australian Sailing Futures Team with coach Amelia Catt (also previous World #1).

Sailing allows me to pursue my passion and live by my core values: health and fitness, adventure and challenge, and a deep connection to the outdoors. I love the constant challenges that sailing presents within a dynamic natural environment. Every day challenges me mentally and physically to become the best possible athlete and version of myself.

Of course, the highlights reel doesn’t show the constant setbacks and challenges that got me to this point, including three 470 teammates stepping away from the Olympic pathway. But my resilience and adaptability are what keep me moving forward, and now teamed up with Austin Cross, we share the same vision and drive to be representing Australia in 2028 in LA.

Despite this full time commitment and support from State institutes, the next stage of my journey; international racing and eventual qualification for the 2028 LA Olympics—requires significant self-funding. I'm asking for your support to help me compete internationally and represent Australia at the highest level.

Dreams and Goals

My goal is clear: to represent Australia at the 2028 Los Angeles Olympic Games in the 470 class, and then build on that experience to medal at the 2032 Brisbane Games.

To qualify for LA, I need to be in the top 10 at the 2027 World Championships and secure a place on the Australian Sailing Team (AST) through consistent top-level performances in 2026.

This means training full-time, racing internationally, and continually refining our skills with world-class competition. The opportunity to represent Australia on the Olympic stage would be the culmination of years of sacrifice, teamwork, and passion for the sport.

 2026 Campaign Plan

• January: Australian 470 National Championships - Perth
• March: 470 European Championships - Portugal
• April: Sailing Grand Slam Series – Spain
• May: Enoshima Olympic Week – Japan
• July: 470 Asian Championships - Japan
• August: 470 World Championships - Japan
• November: Sail Melbourne - Melbourne
• December: Sail Sydney - Sydney
• Year Round: Individual & Squad Training - Perth, Sydney, International

2026 Budget Breakdown:

• Travel (Flights, Transport, Insurance, Food): $24,200
• Coaching: $16,200
• Boat Transport : $7,300
• Accomodation: $13,500
• Equipment: $14,700
• Competition Entry Fees: $4,000

• Total: $79,900

Join my Olympic journey.

Every donation brings me closer to the 2028 Olympics. Your support not only funds my campaign but fuels a story of passion, perseverance, and Australian sporting pride.

Every donation, no matter the size, makes a real difference. I currently balance my Olympic campaign with part-time work as a PE and Outdoor Education teacher. Greater financial support means fewer hours at work and more hours training, racing, and recovering.

Thank you so much for being part of My team. Let’s make this journey to LA 2028 unforgettable, together!

Proudly Supported By and Representing:

• Mornington Yacht Club
• Fremantle Sailing Club
• Western Australian Institute of Sport
• Australian Sailing Futures Team
• The Sports Injury Clinic - https://www.tsic.com.au/
• Aussie Athlete Fund - https://aussieathletefund.com/