Location: Long Beach, California, USA
Dates: July 14-16, 2023
In July, I participated in the ILCA North American Championships, held at Alamitos Bay Yacht Club in the vibrant city of Long Beach, the sailing site chosen for the 2028 Los Angeles Olympic Games.
This event marked a crucial step towards my goals, allowing me to acquaint myself with the venue. Long Beach proved to be an excellent location for sailing and training, boasting a resilient thermal wind and pleasant temperatures. Throughout our training sessions, we enjoyed consistent winds ranging from 9 to 17 knots daily, accompanied by inviting waves. Additionally, I enjoyed staying with wonderful hosts Joe and Tracy, who made my first time in California even more memorable.
While the regatta presented some challenges due to a shift in weather patterns after the first day, transitioning from good thermal winds to a high-pressure system, I remained optimistic. The lighter winds on the following two days posed a different set of conditions, but despite solid starts, I was unable to convert to strong finishes. In the end, I secured the 11th position out of 47 boats.
Although the outcome wasn't exactly what I had hoped for, the overall experience was invaluable. I am deeply grateful for the support that made this journey possible, from the welcoming hosts to the training opportunities in Long Beach. This regatta has fueled my enthusiasm to continue learning and growing in the sport. A heartfelt thank you to everyone who played a part in this adventure, and I look forward to the exciting challenges that lie ahead.