Gemma hails from a family deeply entrenched in New Zealand’s sailing culture. Her father, Murray Jones, is a five-time America’s Cup winner, which speaks volumes about the high standards she has been exposed to throughout her life. Her brother, Malcolm Jones, has also made his mark in the sailing world. Growing up in such an accomplished family not only nurtured her passion for sailing but also provided her with invaluable insights into the tactics and strategies essential for success at the highest level.
Jones began her sailing journey at a young age, honing her skills in a variety of classes. Her early experiences racing dinghies laid the foundation for her later success in multihull sailing. She quickly excelled in the Nacra 17 class, where her agility and tactical acumen shone. Competing against some of the world’s best sailors, she has built a reputation for her remarkable ability to read the wind and water conditions, allowing her to make quick, effective decisions that often determine the outcome of races.
In addition to her Olympic endeavours, Jones has participated in numerous offshore races and prestigious regattas worldwide. Her diverse sailing background includes experience in various boat classes, allowing her to adapt her skills and techniques to different racing formats. This versatility is particularly beneficial in the Women’s America’s Cup, where the competition will be fierce, and the stakes are high.
Transitioning to the Women’s America’s Cup has been a natural progression for Jones. The high-performance AC40 catamarans demand a unique set of skills, particularly in foiling, which she has mastered in the Nacra 17. Her extensive experience in multihull sailing makes her an ideal candidate for the rigours of match racing, where agility, teamwork, and split-second decisions are critical.
One of Jones’ standout attributes is her strategic mindset. She possesses a deep understanding of race dynamics, which she applies both in planning and executing race strategies. Her experience in high-stakes environments has taught her the importance of teamwork and communication, which are vital in a competitive setting like the Women’s America’s Cup. With the pressure of competing on a global stage, Jones thrives on the adrenaline, often remaining calm and focused in critical moments.
Furthermore, Gemma’s commitment to continual improvement sets her apart from her peers. She actively seeks feedback and engages in training that pushes her physical and mental limits. As part of the New Zealand team, she has embraced the opportunity to learn from other talented sailors, exchanging knowledge and refining her skills. This collaborative spirit strengthens the team as a whole, fostering an environment of growth and innovation.
Jones also takes her role as a mentor seriously. She is passionate about encouraging young female sailors and promoting gender equality in the sport. By sharing her experiences and insights, she aims to inspire the next generation of women in sailing, demonstrating that with dedication and perseverance, they too can achieve greatness in a traditionally male-dominated field.
As one of the more seasoned sailors on the New Zealand team, Gemma Jones is expected to play a pivotal role in their campaign for success in the Women’s America’s Cup. Her combination of experience, technical skill, and tactical intelligence will be crucial as the team navigates the complexities of the AC40 racing format. The New Zealand team is poised to make a significant impact in this historic competition, and Jones’ leadership and expertise will be key to their performance.
With the inaugural Women’s America’s Cup taking place, Gemma Jones stands out as a vital asset to the New Zealand team, exemplifying the spirit of determination and excellence that characterises this groundbreaking event. Her journey reflects not just personal ambition but also the collective strides being made to elevate women’s participation in sailing. As the racing unfolds, all eyes will be on Jones, not only for her competitive spirit but also for her inspiring role in shaping the future of women’s sailing in New Zealand and beyond.
