Future Stars Receive World Class Support

Whilst the likely 470 stars of the next Olympics are currently racing on the waters where the 2012 Olympic Sailing Competition will take place in Weymouth, the next generation of stars are warming up for the 470 Junior Europeans in La Rochelle, France.

The 470 Class teamed up with the organizing committee of the Junior Europeans, the Société des Régates Rochelaises, to run a 470 Junior Racing Clinic providing a unique opportunity for some pre-Championship training and coaching. Run by Alexandre Pallu de la Barriere, 470 Olympian and professional coach, the clinic hosted eight races over 3 days, from 9-11 August, combined with on water coaching and briefings.

The 12 boat fleet enjoyed some great sailing conditions for the clinic with 10-15 knots of wind and a challenging current. Close and really tight racing was the order of play for each day, providing a great warm up for the 470 Junior European Championships.

Eight short races were sailed within the 3 days, with a focus each day on different skills, including start practice with short and long lines and different wind angles, speed tests in different positions and more. Twice daily shore briefings took place to share knowledge, together with daily video reviews, and the meteorology briefings giving a valuable insight into the La Rochelle Bay sea breeze, current and shore effect.

After 8 races, Gal Markovich and Aviram Swisa (ISR) won the the men's fleet with Orsolya Sipos and Zsofia Sipos (HUN) taking the lead in the women's fleet.

More Information:
Event Website

Image: The top girls and boys teams © Alexandre Pallu de la Barriere
Source: Alexandre Pallu de la Barriere