For Carrson Pearce, Christmastime may never have been so amazing. After earning a spot in the 46th annual Aon Youth Sailing World Championships with a victory in the U.S. Championships in mid-August, the Manahawkin teenager headed to Auckland, New Zealand, early last week to sail against the best in the world.

On Tuesday, Dec. 20, he became one of the best in the world by placing third with 69 points in the Laser Radial competition.