Samantha began her competitive sailing career in 2017, specializing in the Olympic RS

class and training rigorously at the Royal Queensland Yacht Squadron in Manly, QLD. In 2020, she transitioned to the IQFoil class, where she quickly found success, winning five national titles. Her achievements also include earning a wild card spot on the Professional Windsurfing Tour in 2022 and breaking a five-year drought by rejoining the Australian Sailing Squad in 2023. That same year, Samantha qualified Australia for the Paris 2024 Olympics. However, a car accident during the World Championships severely injured her shoulder, requiring surgery and forcing her to withdraw from competition for the remainder of 2024.

Due to her injury and inability to train or compete, Samantha lost access to much-needed funding and coaching, making her return to competitive form even more challenging.

Despite these setbacks, Samantha remains dedicated to her goal of representing Australia in the IQFoil class at the Olympics, and has now turned her focus to the 2028 Olympic Games. After an intense rehabilitation period supported by the Queensland Academy of Sport, she is preparing for her return in 2025. Her schedule includes major international events, including:

• Princesa Sofia Regatta in Palma, Mallorca, in April 2025 (first competition post-surgery).
• SOF Olympic Week in Hyeres, France, in April 2025.
• 2025 IQFoil World Championships in Aarhus, Denmark, in July.
• 2025 IQFoil European Championships (venue and date TBC).
• Various international training camps to regain her competitive form.

To compete at the highest level, Samantha needs support for critical areas such as coaching, travel, and accommodation. Donations made through the Australian Sports Foundation will help cover these essential costs and are tax-deductible for amounts of $2 or more. Your support is invaluable in helping Samantha reach her goal of Olympic success.