UK Optimist sailors shine in Torrevieja, Spain
by Sandy Ramus 3 Feb 06:15 PST
30 January - 2 February 2025
Each year, Spain's Mediterranean coast hosts a series of top-tier Optimist events, attracting the world's best young sailors. Last weekend saw the series opener in Torrevieja, near Alicante, where nearly 430 sailors from 30 countries gathered to battle for podium spots.
Eight UK sailors attended the event, with some returning to familiar waters, while others were experiencing international winter sailing for the first time. With a mix of competitive racing and vibrant shoreside activities, the event offered something for sailors of all ages and abilities.
Day 1 kicked off with blue skies, 20 degreesC temperatures, and winds ranging from 15 to 25 knots. The fleet, split into four flights, saw over 100 boats on each start line. The Brits made their presence known early, with Finn Ramus delivering an impressive 2, 3, 7 scoreline, securing 5th overall at the end of the day. The evening wrapped up with a welcoming party and a lively seafront parade, adding to the event's festival atmosphere.
Day 2 presented lighter, more unpredictable winds, creating tricky conditions. Despite the Race Committee's efforts, only one race was completed across the fleets. Jonny Rogers led the UK contingent with a 14th-place finish, securing the top Brit position of the day. After racing, sailors took the chance to explore the town and enjoy the local cuisine.
With four races completed, the fleet was divided into Gold, Silver, Bronze, and Pearl groups based on standings. Five UK sailors secured spots in the Gold Fleet, proving Britain's growing strength on the international stage. For the younger, less experienced sailors, it was an invaluable opportunity to compete alongside their peers and challenge for top fleet positions.
Day 3 belonged to 11-year-old Charlie Holland, who sailed beautifully to win the second race of the day in the hugely competitive Gold Fleet. The celebrations were continued when Jonny Rogers followed suit with a bullet in the third race of the day, with Charlie following close behind in third place. Darcy O'Donnell also impressed with an 8th place in the Bronze Fleet.
The final day arrived too soon for many with light winds in the forecast. The Race Committee worked hard to complete one morning race before the wind switched around to a strengthening sea breeze, which then allowed two more races. Jonny Rogers proved his consistency once again, finishing 19th and seventh in the first two races, securing an outstanding fourth place overall. Meanwhile, Charlie Holland picked up a BFD (Black Flag Disqualification) that cost him 1st place in the Junior boys category, but he was still thrilled with his second place category finish and 23rd place overall.
These results mark some of the UK's best performances at international level, setting a new benchmark for future generations. It was equally inspiring to see younger UK sailors like Cara Lynch and Nikole Douglass thriving on the big stage, grinning from ear to ear at the finish line. Cara Lynch showed fantastic resilience throughout her first international regatta, steadily climbing the ranks in Pearl Fleet. There's no doubt—they've caught the sailing bug, and this is just the beginning.
The Optimist remains the world's leading junior sailing class, providing a solid foundation for both beginners and those competing at high international levels. With a legacy of producing future Olympic champions and a global fleet larger than any other, it continues to be the ultimate starting point for young sailors looking to develop their skills, confidence, and passion for the sport. Whether just setting sail or chasing podium finishes, the Optimist offers unmatched opportunities for growth, competition, and the foundations for a lifelong adventures on the water.
Full results