Triumph Against Odds: Andrew Dolly Divola Conquers the Waves at 2025 Vaikobi Australian Windsurfer Nationals

Published: 27 Jan 2025
Andrew 'Dolly' Divola, a living legend in the Australian Sailing Community, made waves at the 2025 Vaikobi Australian Windsurfer Class Nationals, undeterred by health struggles, and with pure aquatic finesse.

The 2025 Vaikobi Australian Windsurfer Class Regatta boasted a plethora of wave-riding, sail-harnessing talents, but among them, a singular figure stood out - Andrew ‘Dolly’ Divola. In true testament to the unprecedented spirit of Windsurfer Class competitions, Dolly secured a hard-fought third-place finish in the slalom division, providing a memorable highlight of the event.

His journey to the podium wasn’t a smooth sail, rather a test of his resolve. He had to persist through multiple rounds of elimination to reach the final, often facing well-rested competitors, while Dolly himself had already endured numerous leg rounds. Yet, he prevailed - a testament to his notoriously resilient spirit and evident sailing prowess.

As Dolly came ashore, the exhaustion, pain, and raw, unfiltered emotion were palpable. More so, the elation. His triumphant beam, combined with the camaraderie shared with fellow sailors and spectators, was truly something to behold - visceral proof of what Windsurfer Class racing is truly about. To race not for the finish line, but for the love of the sport, the thrill of the ride, and the sheer joy of navigating the unpredictable ocean.

This is not just the story of Dolly; it is the essence of every sailor who has ever braced the gutsy wind in their sail and dared the waves beneath their boards. It is the testament and tribute to the indomitable spirit that defines the Windsurfer Class.