51st Youth Sailing World Championships officially open

Speaking at the opening ceremony, he said, “It is said that ‘Water Sports are Well Anchored in Dutch Society’ and with over 2.5 million Dutch people estimated to have an interest in water sports of one type or another it is easy to see why that statement is so true. As the European Capital of Sport for 2022 – The Hague feels like a very natural home for us all over the next few days.

“At the very first Youth Sailing World Championships in 1971, there were just 16 Nations competing and since then it has gone from strength to strength often giving us a glimpse of the Olympic stars of the future.

“So, I wonder, out of the 431 competitors representing 67 nations from all over the world, how many of you may go on to future Olympic success. But, it’s important to remember that success isn’t just measured by your performance in competition – each of you are already an inspiration to other young sailors around you and it might be that your future in sailing is as much about helping others enjoy our sport as it is about your own competitive success.

“Each of you represent a much wider support network of families, coaches, clubs and volunteers who make sailing the sport it is. You don’t just represent yourselves or your country but the thousands of people around the world who give up their time for sailing. So, whether you finish the week on the podium or not, you have already achieved so much just to be here and to be competing in the Youth Sailing World Championships.

“But, none of this would be possible without the support of so many, so I would like to take this opportunity to thank our wonderful host city Den Haag, the Den Haag Ministry of Health, Welfare and Sport and Watersportverbond.

“To TIG Sports and the many volunteers, safety teams and committees working on and off the water to deliver this championship. To our sponsors, Allianz, and to our equipment suppliers; International Laser Class Association; Nacra Sailing; Nautivela; Ovington and iQFOiL Youth, without whom this championship could not be delivered.

“So, enjoy the week, have fun, make new friends and take your experience home to inspire others.”

Racing gets underway tomorrow where a light to medium north-westerly breeze is expected.

by Andy Rice, event reporter for World Sailing.