Julio Alonso Ortega, a BSc Business Management student at Lancaster University Management School, has recently qualified as one of just two sailors to represent Spain at the final of the world’s largest youth sailing championship.

The Red Bull Foiling Generation World Final takes place in Miami next month, with each team racing high-speed foiling catamarans in a bid to be crowned world champions.

This prestigious under 21 sailing championship, developed by double Olympic champions Roman Hagara and Hans-Peter Steinacher, will see 32 athletes from 16 countries participating. Julio will be aiming for glory as part of team Spanish Impulse.

17 year old Julio, who is in his first year at Lancaster, has been sailing since the age of 10, and throughout his career he has achieved a number of titles including under 21 team racing world champion, 2 under 17 Spanish championships, one under 19 championship and one senior Spanish championship. Since joining Lancaster University, he has been combining his studies with a rigorous training regime in preparation for the championship.

Julio said: “I am very excited about being given the opportunity to represent Spain and the Spanish Impulse Team in this championship. Along with the team, I am already training hard to improve so I can arrive in the best shape. I love sailing but at the same time, really enjoy business and studying. Before going to university it was proposed I start an Olympic campaign, but I rejected it due to the big opportunity studying in Lancaster University presents. I hope I’ll get the chance to study in any breaks!”

Julio set off for training in Mallorca on Saturday 3 November, before travelling to the United States this week, ready for the competition which takes place between 6th – 12th November 2018.

Professor Angus Laing, Dean of Lancaster University Management School, said: “On behalf of all his friends, colleagues and tutors in LUMS, I’d like to congratulate Julio on qualifying for this prestigious event.

“Representing your country at a world final is an incredible achievement – and maintaining grueling training schedules whilst studying for a top class degree is admirable. Good luck, Julio!”