Zhik is proud to announce that team riders Mathew Belcher (AUS), Jo Aleh & Polly Powrie (NZL) have claimed the title of 2013 World Sailor of the Year!

It was the third time Belcher had been nominated and it proved to be his lucky number. The 470 Sailor has been unstoppable, with a record 17 straight regatta wins and going.

“It’s a complete honour,” said Belcher during the awards ceremony held in Muscat, Sultanate of Oman. “It's great recognition for this year and the efforts we’ve put in and the results we’ve achieved. I am very fortunate to have great support, from my coach Victor Kovalenko, crew and support staff.”

The women’s 470 pair of Jo Aleh & Olivia Powrie took home the prize in the female category, capping off an amazing year after also becoming the World and Olympic champions.

“I’m a little bit shocked,” said Aleh. “There were some amazing nominees this year and we are delighted to be part of this. We feel honoured to be part of the group.” “We haven’t done this alone and we had some wonderful people behind us who have been truly supportive,” added Powrie.

Congratulations to Mathew, Jo and Polly on a well-deserved and fantastic achievement!