The recently concluded SB20 World Championship in Dubai witnessed a historic moment as Team Kidzink emerged as the new World Champions.

The team, consisting of Charlotte Borghesi as helmswoman, Pippa Kenton-Page as strategist, Artem Basalkin as tactician, and Gonçalo Lopes as trimmer and bowman, marked not only the first UAE victory in the competition but also a significant milestone as Borghesi became the first female helmswoman to claim the championship with a 50% female team.

Team Kidzink of Charlotte Borghesi, Pippa Kenton-Page, Artem Basalkin and Gonçalo Lopes marked not only the first UAE victory in the competition, but also a historic moment as Charlotte Borghesi became the first female helmswoman to claim the championship with a 50% female team Photo: Anna Zyk

As Afloat reported previously, the team's overwhelming dominance was evident throughout the championship, with race results ranging from 16th to 2nd. Moreover, they won the title without scoring a single bullet, which deserves a round of applause. Pippa Kenton-Page, Olympic Gold medallist and strategist onboard Kidzink, reflected on the championship: "The 2024 Dubai Duty Free SB20 Worlds was a really fantastic event both on and off the water, providing a really challenging mixture of conditions to the fleet. From offshore shifty and gusty conditions to steadier thermal wind days and tidal influences, the fleet were tested in a variety of conditions from 6-20 knots, and it was really enjoyable and challenging to race on an ever-changing race track with a really new team."

The Iron Lady of Dubai  - Charlotte Borghesi with her Team Kidzink crew on their way to B20 World Championship victory  Photo: Mike Brignall

Charlotte Borghesi, a mother of seven, an athlete, and a busy business owner, has been living in Dubai for almost 15 years. Born and raised in the UK, she met her husband Paolo, and they became partners in everything - in life, in business, and in sport. Her upbringing and the role models she chose greatly influenced who she has become. With a thirst for learning, action, and adventure, she has been involved in competitive sports since childhood, drawing inspiration from figures like Margaret Thatcher for their unwavering determination and bold leadership.

Team Team Kidzink  consisting of Charlotte Borghesi as helmswoman, Pippa Kenton-Page as strategist, Artem Basalkin as tactician, and Gonçalo Lopes as trimmer and bowman  Photo: Mike Brignall

In November 2023, Charlotte decided she wanted to do her best in sailing instead of just doing it for fun. She gathered a team with Artem, Goncalo, and her friend Pippa, which was later completed by experienced sailor Rodion Luka as a coach. The team's roles were clearly defined, much like in any successful team, "and also like in a fully functional family," said Charlotte.

The SB20 Class is proud to have such a dedicated and determined team as a winner, and no doubt everyone is curious to know more about this super-talented lady from Dubai and how she made it possible. "While sailing is not Paolo's first love and main passion, he decided to join and compete in the SB20 World to be together, and maybe he will now put together another high-performing team so we can continue to make the impossible possible," said Charlotte.