George Gautrey

George Gautrey is an accomplished New Zealand sailor, specializing in the demanding ILCA 7 class, among others such as Moth and ILCA 6. His career began with foundational coaching between 2010 and 2015, which supported his early development in the sport. Gautrey achieved a significant milestone by graduating high school and later pursued an engineering degree, demonstrating a commitment to both his academic and athletic pursuits.

Gautrey has consistently performed at a high level on the international stage. In 2019, he secured a bronze medal at the Laser Worlds in Japan, a notable achievement that positioned him among the top sailors globally. He continued this trajectory of success, culminating in being named the NZ Sailor of the Year in 2023. This prestigious award was part of a triple win at the Aon Yachting Excellence Awards, where he also received the Sir Bernard award. His recent performances include leading the International Laser Class Association (ILCA 7) fleet at the halfway point of the 2025 Long Beach Olympic event, further solidifying his status as a leading figure in the sport.

His dedication to sailing is evident through consistent participation in major events, including ILCA World Championships and World Cups, where he has earned multiple bronze and silver medals. Gautrey’s return to international ILCA sailing after a break saw him finish just 11 points behind Britain’s Mickey Beckett, showcasing his enduring talent and competitive spirit. He is currently a member of the New Zealand Sailing Team, representing his country in various competitions.