Zach Stibbe

How do you juggle your Sailing and a building apprenticeship? Any tips for balancing both?

I've learned to be super organized over time. Moving from Dunedin to Auckland also added an extra layer of adaptation. On Sunday evenings, I plan my week—sailing, building, and gym time. Having a structure helps me stay on track, but it's really about finding what works best for you to operate at your highest level.

What made you want to dive into a building apprenticeship while still competing in your sport?

I’ve always enjoyed woodwork, so becoming a builder seemed like a natural fit. I also spoke to another Olympic sailor, Issac McHardie, who’s also doing a BCITO apprenticeship, and he’s been a great mentor. I want to build my career in construction while continuing to push my sailing ambitions.

Do the skills you’re learning in construction help you on the water? How do they connect?

A lot of the skills I've gained are related to communication—whether it's with my employer, coach, or teammates. Clear communication around my weekly plans and training schedules has been key to managing both my apprenticeship and sailing commitments.

Take us through a typical day! How do you balance training, competition, and your apprenticeship?

Each day varies based on wind conditions and squad training schedules, but a typical day looks like this:

• 5:30am: Wake up
• 6:00 - 7:00am: Gym
• 7:30am - 4:00pm: Work on site
• 4:30 - 7:00pm: Sail
• 7:30pm: Dinner
• 9:00pm: Bed

Staying fueled throughout the day is critical to ensure I can perform at my best in both areas.

What’s been the toughest part of balancing a building apprenticeship & your Sailing?

The hardest part is sometimes feeling guilty about leaving work early for training. But my team at Warwick Gair Builders is incredibly supportive and understands my goals, which makes it much easier.

Does construction give you a mental break from sports, or does it add to the pressure?

Having something outside of sports is vital for me—it gives my mind a break and allows me to approach training with fresh energy. While it can add pressure, I think it’s better for long-term success in sports.

Has your sports experience helped you succeed in your apprenticeship? How do teamwork and discipline play a role?

Sports have taught me discipline, focus, and teamwork, all of which are essential in a building apprenticeship. The attitude and work ethic you develop in sports translate directly into the workplace, and employers value that.

How do you stay motivated and energised when juggling both a physically demanding sport and hands-on work?

It’s definitely tough, but the right mindset, organization, and fueling help. If you’re passionate about your sport, balancing both becomes easier, and staying motivated comes naturally.

What’s the long-term plan: Are you focusing on sports now, or do you see both careers coexisting in the future?

I aim to have successful careers in both building and sailing. For now, I’m balancing both, but as my sailing ambitions grow, I may need to focus more on that. That said, I believe there’s room for both in the future.

What advice would you give to young athletes who want to pursue something outside of sports while still competing?

Pursuing something outside of sports is rewarding, but it’s not easy. You need to be highly organised and efficient with your time. Having something else to focus on helps you stay refreshed and brings a new perspective to your sport, making you more focused when you return to it.