Christian Ebbin will embark on a new chapter in his sailing career when he makes his international debut in the Waszp foiling dinghy at the upcoming Open Orange Bowl Regatta in Biscayne Bay, Florida.

The 18-year-old was introduced to the high-performance class two years ago via a partnership between SailGP Inspire and local charity Endeavour. He was among a group of youth sailors who got a rare opportunity to sail in the class as part of SailGP Inspire’s community, education and outreach initiative.

Ebbin is excited to be competing at the regatta but admits his work is cut out getting reacquainted with the one-design Waszp, having not sailed in the class in several months.

“I am looking forward to do some fun regattas in the Waszp,” Ebbin told The Royal Gazette.

“I had hoped to get out in the Waszp this week but unfortunately the weather didn’t work in my favour, so I will see how it goes next week as I haven’t foiled since the summer.”

Ebbin is no stranger to the regatta, to be hosted by Coconut Grove Sailing Club from December 27 to 30, as he has experience competing there in the 29er skiff.

The teenage sailor will arrive in Florida fresh from competing with compatriot PJ Rodrigues in the 29er at the Youth World Sailing Championships in Brazil.

The pair impressed on their debut at the event where they finished a respectable 20th among an experienced and formidable 30-strong male/mixed 29er skiff fleet, with three top-ten finishes and a best showing of sixth in the 12-race series.

“Despite finishing 20th, the journey was a testament to growth, learning and the sheer thrill of international competition,” Ebbin said.

Ebbin and Rodrigues qualified for the Youth Sailing World Championships at the Typhoon UK 29er Class National and Open Championships in Weymouth, England, this summer.