American geologist Chris Goldfinger is aiding national sailing representative Viliame Ratului in understanding aerodynamics, drawing parallels between sails and wings. The pair first met at Vuda Marina in February.
Ratului has been sailing since he was nine and is set to represent Fiji at the France Olympics in Paris later this month. A farewell event for the duo took place at the Boat Shed in Vuda on Tuesday night.
The friendship between the Savusavu native and the American geologist is rooted in their shared passion for water. They depart for Paris today.
“When we met, the marina was supporting him in numerous ways. He didn’t have anyone to discuss sailing with,” Goldfinger said. “We began discussing these concepts, enhancing his understanding of the dynamics involved. As a pilot, I know aerodynamics well, and sails and wings are almost identical.”
Goldfinger, drawing from his past experience in intercollegiate racing on the West Coast, advocates for precise training. “We would train and coach other students to race; the boat is similar to what Billy Ratului is now using. Speed is key, and achieving it requires perfection. It’s a very high level of competition.”
Ratului’s early training was under the mentorship of his coach in Savusavu, Jeff Taylor. Reflecting on his journey, Ratului remarked, “I did not realise that this pathway, which began in Savusavu, would lead to this day.” He expressed gratitude for his community’s support.
Vuda Marina general manager Adam Wade highlighted Ratului’s break from tradition in a country known for its rugby fervor by embracing sailing. Former national rep Tony Philip Sr. affirmed that Ratului has solid backing from the Vuda Marina and the Fiji Yachting Association, ensuring he is well-supported.