Alisha Kawalla sailing to Olympic glory

AFTER recording personal best results at two international regattas in the past month, Albion Park's Alisha Kawalla is shifting her thoughts to studying for the HSC and stepping up to open level competition later this year.

The 18-year-old placed fourth at the International Sailing Federation (ISAF) Youth Worlds in Canada in the RS:X Windsurfing class, following it with another fourth position at the RS:X Youth Worlds in Poland.

Despite missing out on the podium in Canada by just one point, her initial disappointment was short-lived as the Australian team, of which she was captain, placed first.

"I was initially disappointed to come so close not just once but twice," she said.

"Looking back now I am really pleased with my performance in such testing conditions.

"Also, to captain the world championship winning team was a huge honour and it was fantastic to be part of," she added.

The second day of racing in Canada coincided with her 18th birthday, and greeted her with an 18-knot breeze and two first places.

"I had four first places in Canada " the same as the Italian girl who won the regatta.

This was a huge confidence boost as I also had some light breeze, which made me work harder to stay with them."

Poland presented a whole challenge for Kawalla, going from the tight knit Aussie team in Canada to being without on hand coaching support.

"Poland was an extremely challenging regatta for me"? there was no consistency in strength or direction, every day came with a new set of challenges."

Alisha is focussing on her studies and partnering Jessica Crisp for the Beijing Olympics.