Two-time Olympian, Sarah Macky (now Sam Dunn) made her Olympic debut at the Sydney 2000 Games, competing in the Women’s Europe class sailing event.

As a newcomer among 26 of the world’s top sailors, her goal was to gain experience and deliver consistent performances.

Sam handled Sydney’s variable conditions with composure, maintaining upper mid-fleet positions and avoiding poor finishes. Her efforts culminated in a commendable 9th place overall, a result that positioned her as a rising talent and motivated her to pursue a second Olympic campaign.

Following Sydney, she launched a determined four-year effort to qualify for the Athens 2004 Olympics. From 2001 to 2003, she trained and competed extensively in Europe, where the Europe class circuit was strongest. Her dedication paid off with bronze medals at both the 2002 and 2003 Europe Class European Championships, open events featuring top international sailors. These podium finishes confirmed her status, and by 2003, at age 23, she was in peak competitive form.

In August 2003, Sarah won bronze at the Athens Olympic test event, further solidifying her readiness for the Games. In January 2004, she competed in the Olympic Nomination Trials at Torbay Sailing Club in Auckland. Entering as the favourite, she excelled in moderate wind conditions and secured her spot for Athens. With four more years of experience and a successful qualification campaign behind her, Sarah approached her second Olympics as a seasoned and respected member of the New Zealand sailing squad.

At the Athens 2004 Olympics, held at the Agios Kosmas Sailing Centre, Sarah faced challenging conditions including strong Meltemi winds and intense heat. Her prior training in Europe, including Greek waters, proved invaluable.

Competing in what would be the final Olympic appearance for the Europe class (set to be replaced by the Laser Radial in 2008), Sarah delivered an impressive performance, finishing 8th overall.

Coached by an Olympian (Leslie Egnot), Sarah sailed out of the Kohimarama Yacht Club

Sam Dunn

Biography

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