A Western Cape sailor, Ruurd van Zyl represents HYC in competitive dinghy racing. Ruurd's competitive record on SailingSA begins in February 2024. Since then 7 races across 1 regattas have been completed. Ruurd competes mainly in the Optimist B fleet, alongside races in other fleets. Highlights include winning the 2024 Hermanus Cape Classic in the Optimist B fleet, along with the 2024 Hermanus Cape Classic in the Optimist B fleet. Ruurd remains an active competitor in the Western Cape sailing circuit.