28 Sep 2019
Nassau Bahamas
Opening Ceremonies at 2019 Optimist North Americans
Today marks the Official Opening Day of the 2019 Optimist North American Championship hosted by the Nassau Yacht Club, in Nassau, Bahamas under the auspices of the International Optimist Dinghy Association. It has been a tumultuous few weeks leading up to this day for the Organizers of this Championship, as just a few short weeks ago that Hurricane Dorian devasted the northern islands of Abaco and Grand Bahamas.
The Optimist Sailing Community has come together to initiate numerous fund-raising activities to help sailors and families that were affected by the storm.
164 sailor athletes from 20 countries have arrived in Nassau over the past few days in anticipation of the championship.
Sigrid Beckmann, IODA VP Americas, summed it up perfectly in her Welcome address, “Life in all these islands has drastically changed forever, however, the spirit of our Bahamian friends remains strong. Let our international sailing family bring hope, kindness and optimism to our hospitable and warm friends.”
To follow the event and get daily images and results, go to the Event Microsite
To see Country Rosters