Nico Kroucamp, a senior IT technician at North-West University (NWU) and an accomplished sailor, has had an unforgettable season, making his mark in competitive sailing with one remarkable success after another. Earlier this year, from August 9 to 11, Nico and his team achieved an impressive second-place finish at the J22 Keelboat Nationals, a challenging three-day event filled with top-tier competitors and unpredictable conditions. This outstanding performance was just the beginning of an even greater journey.

In an electrifying follow-up, Nico and his team recently conquered The Formula One South African Sailing Class National Championship, held from October 18 to 20, 2024, seizing first place with an exceptional display of skill, teamwork, and tactical precision. This latest triumph highlights Nico’s dual talents, as he seamlessly balances his demanding role at NWU with his passion for sailing. Facing off against some of South Africa's finest sailors, Nico’s team navigated strong currents and capricious winds to claim the top spot—a victory that cements their position as one of the most formidable crews in South African sailing. This milestone event also honoured the memory of Nico's team skipper's father, the late Dickey Manten—a South African sailing legend known for building the local Formula One boat. Dicky's pioneering spirit and contributions to the sport have left an indelible mark on South African sailing.

The Nationals saw a record turnout of 22 boats, with 19 successfully completing two races. Across six races, one was discarded in the final results. Saturday’s racing began with light winds that quickly built into strong gusts, allowing four races to be completed, while Sunday’s steadier winds allowed for two races before dark clouds loomed, and a rainstorm threatened to cut the event short. SAS National Class Championship medals were awarded to the top three positions, with special honours going to Max Petzold as Most Improved Sailor and Dirk Manten for embodying the Spirit of Sailing.

Organised by the Formula One (SA) Class Association in partnership with the Deneysville Aquatic Club (DAC) and officiated under the vigilant eye of Race Officer David Scorey, the regatta tested both the technical and endurance limits of every sailor.

Throughout the season, Nico has harnessed the same precision and problem-solving skills that define his work in IT, applying them on the open water to achieve excellence. With this latest championship title under his belt, Nico is now more than an accomplished technician; he is a national sailing champion with his sights set on new victories and an even brighter future on the waves!

Dirk Manten (skipper), Nico Kroucamp and JJ van Niekerk (crew)

Melissa Manten (skippers' wife) Dirk Manten (skipper), Nico Kroucamp and JJ van Niekerk (crew)  and Kathy Manten, the mother to the skipper and owner of Manten Marina and PSYC Yacht club.