Meet Lana McCabe

Meet Sailor Lana McCabe

Fifteen year old Lana sails as part of the Scottish Sailing Team. Her boat is called a Feva which is a small two person dingy and she races at events around the country.

What inspired you to take up your sport?

My family have had boats and been sailing since before I was born so I have always been around them. I was encouraged by my parents to start sailing lessons when I was 5 and have been sailing ever since.

Which club did you start your sporting journey with?

I started sailing with Aberdeen and Stonehaven Yacht Club and still sail there now.

What has been your biggest challenge in your sporting journey, and how did you overcome this?

The biggest challenge I faced was when I first started sailing, I didn't enjoy sailing in the type of boat I was learning in which made me feel like sailing wasn't for me. I was encouraged to try a different boat which gave me a fresh start with the sport.

What are your goals for the coming year?

My main goal this year is to get to the Feva Nationals and do as well as I possible can at them.

What does your training programme involve, and does this impact on other areas of your life?

My training program involves sailing as much as possible both at training weekends and any other opportunities. Having recently been accepted to the Scottish Sailing Team I am being encouraged by the coaches to do as much fitness as possible which involves going to the gym and swimming as well as any additional sport that keeps you active so I also play water polo.

What skills do you have that have helped you succeed in your sport?

I am a confident swimmer and remain calm in the cold water which is good if you capsize. I am also a good judge of speed and distance which is good for judging starts and also being able to sail around other boats without crashing.

How many competitions do you plan to compete in?

Around 5. Some competitions I hope to compete in this year are the RYA Winter and Summer Championships, the Feva Nationals, Scottish Schools Championships and the Blue Toon Trophy.

How do you deal with setbacks in your sport, whilst training or competing?

It depends on the situation. For instance if I am on the water before a race I would talk things through with my teammate and discuss what we could do better. If I have the option it can sometimes help to take a moment away from everything and think things through alone.

Who is your biggest inspiration from the world of sport?

My biggest sailing inspiration is a man called Damien Seguin-Voile who sailed around the world in a single handed race (on his own) with only one hand which I think is pretty cool and impressive. The race he competed in is the Vendee Globe and he's competing again this year.

What is your greatest achievement in your sport?

My greatest achievement is competing in the RYA Youth and Junior Championships last year and placing 3rd in the Feva class and then going on to be accepted into the Scottish Sailing Team which I never thought was possible.

What helps you to stay motivated and focussed during your training?

Having my teammates around me helps as we all encourage each other to do well.

What advice would you give to others just starting out in any sport?

Not to give up at the first hurdle and not to be disappointed if things don't go right first time round.

How will your Talented Athlete Pass help you develop and hone your skills as an athlete?

I will be able to use the gym at Stonehaven Leisure Centre before turning 16 which will help with what the coaches have requested we do.

Is there anywhere people could find more information about your upcoming sporting activity? (Facebook, Website / Twitter)

RYA Scotland and RS Feva have lots of promotional things on Facebook and Instagram.