Nick Thompson

"My interest in sailing was originally sparked by the feeling that taking to the water with my friends gave me - messing about and racing my friends with total freedom was very rewarding at a young age. My competitiveness in the sport also started early and I remember watching the Olympics imagining what it would be like to compete there.

"My scholarship made a huge impact to my studies and Olympic campaigning while at Exeter. It’s not just the financial support but the support network that having the scholarship provided. From the University helping to balance studies and competing to providing world class strength and conditioning support I have no doubt that it helped accelerate my career while also allowing me to graduate.  

"The highlights of my career so far have to be winning the World Championships back to back along with the European Championship and competing at the Rio Olympic Games."