The Successful Conclusion of the Día de Canarias Optimist Championship

The Día de Canarias Optimist Championship wrapped up on Sunday, June 2nd, presenting a stunning spectacle for spectators with over a hundred vessels glistening in the picturesque Bay of Puerto del Rosario. The event brought together ten sailing clubs from across the Canary Islands, participating in what many consider the pinnacle of youth sailing competitions in the archipelago.

Organizational Excellence in Fuerteventura

The success of the event can largely be attributed to the meticulous planning and execution by the Club Náutico de Fuerteventura, with valuable support from the Club de Regatas Fuerteventura Isla del Viento and local civic authorities. Alejandro de León, president of the Club Náutico de Fuerteventura, emphasized the significance of the championship, stating that it showcased Fuerteventura’s potential to host high-level sailing competitions.

“We have the widest ramp in the Canaries, measuring 45 meters, just a stone’s throw from the Nautical School and club facilities. This proximity allows immediate access to the racing field, a convenience that clubs from other islands often compliment,” de León shared.

He also mentioned the incredible growth potential for sailing on the island, encouraging a more significant investment in the sport.

Spotlight on Rising Stars: Yumalay and Villiams

As expected, the top spots on the podium were occupied by established clubs from the larger Canary Islands, such as those from Tenerife and Gran Canaria. However, the championship also saw exhilarating surprises.

One standout was Yumalay de Agustín, who secured a bronze medal in the sub-13 category. Although originally from Fuerteventura, she competes for Lanzarote’s Club de Regatas 4Vientos. Her achievement demonstrates the growing skill and competitive edge among young sailors in the region.

On another note, Villiams Osipovs, a young sailing prodigy from Kyrgyzstan, made waves in the sub-13 male category. Known for his dominance in various competitions worldwide and boasting over half a million followers on Instagram, he captivated the audience with his incredible sailing talent. Despite his current residency in Lanzarote and impressive performance, Osipovs could not be crowned the champion of the Canary Islands due to federation regulations.

“I love sailing in the Canaries and thoroughly enjoyed my time in Fuerteventura,” Osipovs remarked post-competition.

Nevertheless, he was declared the race champion, receiving enthusiastic applause as he joined his fellow young competitors on the podium.

Ideal Conditions for Sailing

The second and final day of the competition, part of the ‘Canary Islands Championship – Día de Canarias – Trofeo Naviera Armas,’ featured optimal sailing conditions. The Club Náutico de Fuerteventura, in conjunction with the Canary Island Sailing Federation and the Spanish Association of the International Class, orchestrated this exciting event for 102 young competitors.

Favorable weather played a crucial role in the competition. With sunny skies, gentle waves, and northwesterly winds ranging from 10 to 14 knots, athletes aged from 8 to 15 years were able to perform at their best.

Podium Triumphs Across Categories

In the sporting arena, the Real Club Náutico de Gran Canaria, Real Club Náutico de Tenerife, and Club Marítimo Varadero consistently held top ranks in the regional Optimist championship.

Sub-16 Champions

In the sub-16 category, the championship saw the following winners:

• Males:

  1. Gustavo del Castillo (RCN Gran Canaria)
  2. Unai Ugarte (Club Deportivo Código 0)
  3. Ernesto Díaz (RCN de Tenerife)

• Females:

  1. Marta Mansito (RCN Gran Canaria)
  2. Carla Lorenzo (RCN de Tenerife)
  3. Lili Skomska (RCN Gran Canaria)

Sub-13 Highlights

The sub-13 category also saw thrilling performances, with:

• Champion of the race: Villiams Osipovs (Fraglia Vela Riva)
• Santiago Pérez (RCN de Tenerife) in first place.
• Iván Benítez (RCN de Tenerife) finishing second.
• Gonzalo Presa (Club Deportivo Código 0) taking third.

Sub-11 Winners

Moreover, the sub-11 category brought equal excitement:

• Males:

  1. Pablo Medina (RCN Gran Canaria)
  2. Martín Betancor (Club Marítimo Varadero)
  3. Doramas Schartau (Club Marítimo Varadero)

• Females:

  1. Lola Carrión (independent)
  2. Patricia Sosa (Club Marítimo Varadero)
  3. Dácil Merino (Club Marítimo Varadero)

Acknowledgments and Celebrations

As the championship drew to a close, the event organizers expressed deep gratitude to sponsors and supporters, including public figures such as the mayor of Puerto del Rosario, David de Vera, and the Fuerteventura Council’s Sports Minister, Luis González.

The president of the Club Náutico de Fuerteventura, alongside the Real Federación Canaria de Vela, acknowledged key partners like the Fuerteventura Tourism Board and local government agencies, highlighting their vital role in the championship’s success.

The atmosphere was celebratory not just for the winners but for all participants, emphasizing the spirit of camaraderie and community fostered throughout the event.

Final Classifications

For those interested, full rankings across categories can be found on the official Canarian Sailing Federation website.

The champions of the Día de Canarias Optimist Championship exemplified the bright future ahead for youth sailing in the Canary Islands, showcasing talent and enthusiasm against the stunning backdrop of Fuerteventura’s waters.