Ben Rist

Hi! I’m Ben Rist. I'm 17-years-old from Whangaparaoa, Auckland. I am driven to win by doing the work others aren’t willing to do.

I sail in the iQFoil which is a high-performance sailing class that requires a mix of physical strength, decision-making, and performing under pressure. It has given me a real sense of community and it has been the biggest part of my life during my school years. 

In 2025, at 16, I won the U19 New Zealand Youth National Championship and placed 19th at the U19 Youth Sailing World Championships in Vilamoura, Portugal as part of the New Zealand Youth Sailing Team. Competing internationally reinforced my belief that hard work wins every time.

I currently train full-time in iQFoil and train alongside the NZ Male Olympic Squad. This is awesome! Every time I am out with them I’m being pushed beyond my current level and they are great role models to me. From them, I am learning what kind of person it takes to achieve at the highest level. Specifically, they are always looking for ways to improve in all areas.

Alongside sailing, I’m beginning an Applied Diploma in Personal Training at the New Zealand Institute of Health and Fitness. I am excited to develop skills that will support both my athletic performance and a potential long-term career pathway.

I have coached at my home club, Manly Sailing Club for the past four years and continue to do so now. This has been, and continues to be, a great experience that has strengthened my leadership, communication, and ability to contribute positively to team culture. This has also given me a different perspective on what it takes to be successful. I have noticed that it is the sailors who can work well with others, who improve the quickest. One of the reasons I really enjoy coaching is the connections I form with the athletes that I teach.

I’m excited and grateful for the opportunity to be part of Pinnacle. I am particularly thrilled for the 10 day Spirit voyage later this year and the skills I will learn from it.