Optimist Nationals

Published 22:24 on 6 Aug 2025

Zoey B writes: Although I was nervous at first, I really enjoyed sailing at Weymouth for my first Optimist Nationals, which happened last week (26-31 July) with Felix, Theo, Zachary, and Raffi.

Felix and Theo did amazingly in the main fleet, getting gold fleet (top 69 boats). Out of 137 boats, Theo came 44th, won 1st under-11 trophy and most improved sailor from 2024 to 2025 nationals. Felix also had a great regatta, coming 64th overall.

From the Racing Regatta, out of 65 boats I came 33rd and Zachary came 56th and also won a prize for sportsmanship for completing several races whilst injured. From the Coached Regatta, out of 41 boats, Raffi came 30th also winning a brand new Optimist in the raffle (can't wait to see it on the water)! Zachary and I also sailed in the Raid Race, with Zachary coming 2nd and I came 3rd! We also wanted to say thank you to ESC's Greg Eaton for being Head of the Protest Committee and lead on the water jury. I think he had a busy week!
We all had a brilliant time at the nationals and are proud of our results. I had so much fun, learnt lots about sailing in a big fleet and I can't wait to do more opens and the nationals next year with more Emsworth juniors.