News

On July 18, 2024, in the picturesque city of Izmir, Turkey, the Abu Dhabi Modern Sailing Team achieved a magnificent feat by clinching a silver medal on the first day of the Optimist Refresher Championship. The event saw 28 talented Emirates and Turkey sailors showcasing their skills on the mesmerizing waters.

Before this splendid victory, the Abu Dhabi team had been diligently preparing for the championship through a comprehensive training camp that commenced on July 5 and is scheduled to conclude on the twentieth of the same month. This strategic decision allowed the team to capitalize on the conducive training conditions offered by Izmir's stunning coastal setting.

Noteworthy is the fact that the competitors in the Optimist category fall within the age range of 9 to 15 years, a clear indication that these young talents are laying the foundation for future success in higher-level sailing competitions, possibly even setting their sights on Olympic aspirations.

Khalifa Al Suwaidi, the Head of the Academy Department at the prestigious Abu Dhabi Marine Sports Club, expressed his pride in the team's accomplishments, emphasizing the significant progress made during their time in Izmir. He highlighted the invaluable experience gained by the young sailors, crediting the challenging conditions of the Aegean Sea for honing their skills and boosting their performance to new heights.

In particular, the impressive second-place finish by Abdullah Al-Zubaidi stands as a testament to the team's dedication and skill, especially in the face of fierce competition from the talented Turkish sailors. The Abu Dhabi Modern Sailing Team's success is a testament to their unwavering commitment to excellence and their relentless pursuit of sailing mastery.