SWANAGE’S Sam Whaley is preparing to mount his charge for a spot in the Great Britain sailing squad at the 2020 Olympics in Tokyo.

The 22-year-old launches his bid for selection in the laser class trials at the end of this month, with eight sailors vying for the single place at next year’s Games.

Whaley, who claimed the RS Aero World Championship title last year, enjoyed a successful period of winter training.

He spent the past few months in Vilamoura, Portugal, with a warm up regatta in Florida in January which did not go entirely to plan.

Whaley said: “While it was disappointing (in Florida), it has really fired me up for the next few months.

“Over the coming year, there will be various events I will compete in around the world and it is whoever places best in these races who will get chosen.

“With so many differing variables in sailing, anything could happen and I am confident I can make a big impact and hopefully get selected to represent Team GB in Tokyo.”

Whaley’s Olympic dream is backed by several Dorset firms, including Poole-based marine electronics manufacturer Actisense and Darwin Escapes, who own Swanage Bay View Holiday Home Park.

More details on Whaley’s sailing can be found on his website www.samwhaley.com.