ILCA 7 World Championships – Qingdao, China
Regatta Report
Qingdao, China – A Week of Patience, Perseverance and Progress
The 2025 ILCA 7 World Championships in Qingdao tested the patience and resilience of the world’s top single-handed dinghy sailors, with the first four days of the event yielding no racing due to a combination of glassy conditions, strong current, and dense coastal fog. At times, visibility was so poor that it was impossible to see the pin end of the start line—let alone sail a fair race.
Both on and off the water, I had to master the ability to switch off—to conserve energy—and switch back on the moment racing looked possible. The ability to stay calm, composed and ready despite constant uncertainty was a test in itself.
Day 5 – Finally Racing
On Day 5, a light southeasterly breeze finally arrived, allowing for the first two races of the championship. However, Qingdao’s unpredictable conditions weren’t finished making life difficult. Lingering fog trapped between the city’s buildings continued to obscure key visual references, making line transits difficult to judge leading to poor starts in both races.
In Race 1, a smart downwind strategy, staying clear of traffic and finding clean air, allowed me to climb steadily through the fleet to finish 15th. Race 2 was less forgiving. After another difficult start and with the breeze fading, the race committee shortened the course at the second windward mark. With no chance to recover, I had to settle for 29th.
Final Day – Offshore Drama and a Strong Finish
The final day brought a complete change in conditions: a fresh and gusty north westerly offshore wind ranging from 15 to 30 knots. The shifty breeze made for high intensity, tactical racing conditions I relished.
I managed a strong performance in all three races, finishing 3rd, 7th, and 16th respectively, capping off the championship on a high note. These consistent results in the breeze proved crucial in lifting me up the leaderboard.
Final Standing – 25th Overall
I finished 25th overall—my best-ever result at an ILCA 7 World Championship, and a satisfying step forward after a disappointing end in Adelaide last year. While the regatta was shaped by long delays and demanding conditions, I’m proud of how I stayed composed and delivered when it counted.
Qingdao reminded us all that world championship sailing isn’t just about speed and tactics—it’s about resilience, adaptability, and staying ready for the moment when opportunity finally arrives.