UH women’s sailing team heads to nationals as head coach retires

HONOLULU (HawaiiNewsNow) – The Rainbow Wahine sailing team is set to head to the National Championship this week.

Read more Maui storm survivor warns of scams after losing $600

The ‘Bows depart for the ICSA Women’s Fleet Race Nationals on Tuesday.

Hawaii got an at-large bid after finishing third in the Pacific coast Collegiate Sailing Conference Championship.

This will also be the farewell tour for head coach Andy Johnson.

After 36 years at the helm of the program, Johnson is set to retire at the end of the season.

“You know, I cherish all the memories and all the people that really helped make this thing go, you know, it’s a lot of alums, 36 years.” Coach Johnson said.

Read more Punahou girls water polo wins 17th State Championship

“Yeah, it’s gonna be great and it’s given us that extra motivation to do extra well this year.” Senior Amanda Turner added.

“We feel really confident going into nationals this year and especially with (coach Johnson) being there for our last one and his last one too, It’s just been a really special ride all along.” Junior Stella Taherian said.

Johnson has also coached four Olympians in his time and will look to snag Hawaii’s third National Championship this week.

Read more Public invited to sew lei for fallen service members in Memorial Day tradition