2018 European Circuit Fundraiser

Welcome to my Olympic Sailing Campaign fundraiser. The goal is to represent the United States in the International Laser Standard class at the 2020 Summer Olympic Games in Tokyo, Japan and to win a gold medal. In order to do this, I will focus on becoming the fittest athlete on the water, the keenest tactician and strategist, and above all, the best sportsman. Though this will be a long and arduous journey, I am committed to giving it my all and achieving these goals over the Olympic quadrennial. I hope that in doing so, I will also be able to give back to the sailing community at large and inspire the next generation of Olympic athletes. 

I was born and raised in Connecticut, growing up in a family with a very strong sailing background. My father, a sailmaker with his own loft, is a professional sailor who brought me to many top level keelboat events throughout my childhood. My father's success inspired me to pursue sailing further and despite my childhood interests in many other sports, sailing has always been my true passion. When I was seven and allowed to start sailing on my own I began competing in the Optimist class. Sailing in the Optimist class taught me the fundamentals of dinghy racing and was an excellent introduction to the challenges of top level competition. I had a good amount of success in the class, winning several events, but outgrew the boat in a short time. After I outgrew the Optimist and I began competing in Pixels and 420's, before eventually entering the Laser class at the age of 14. 

The Laser is a fourteen foot dinghy with one sail and manned by a single person. Due to its simplicity and accessibility it is a popular boat all over the world making it a strong class. With such a high level of competition racing is both physically demanding and mentally challenging and rewards experience.

My competition now lies on the world stage competing in World Championships, World Cups, and other top international  events. While I have the capability and passion in order to excel at this level, funding will be the limiting factor. The money raised here will allow me to attend major regattas and training camps, purchase necessary equipment, and pay for top level coaching. Every dollar raised will have a impact on my performance.

The amount I have set out to raise is part of the necessary funds I will require to compete on this springs European Circuit and train with other top athletes. While Tokyo 2020 may seem far away it will require my full effort everyday from now until then to guarantee my selection and medaling at the games.

Your support in whatever capacity will be the difference maker in my dream. I thank you for your interest and support in my campaign.

Marek Zaleski
USA 180521