Introduction:
The New Year's Clinic at DinghyCoach's training center brought together an international group of sailors for a week of personalized training, challenging conditions, and skill development in the stunning waters of Lanzarote. Held from the 27th to the 31st of December 2024, the clinic featured five opti sailors training towards the New Year and eight ILCA sailors joining the action. It was an extraordinary mix of tailored coaching, teamwork, and plenty of fun.
Optimists Sail Towards the New Year:
The Optimist group featured five talented sailors representing Great Britain, the Netherlands, Ireland, the USA, and Argentina. This intimate clinic allowed for highly specific coaching tailored to each sailor’s needs. Under the guidance of Dutch sailor and coach Teun in der Maur, the sailors embraced the opportunity to refine their techniques and learn from one another in perfect sailing conditions.
ILCAs Take on the Waves:
The ILCA clinic welcomed eight sailors from across Europe: three from Finland, two from Germany, and one each from Sweden, Switzerland, and Wales. With Leo Barreto, an Olympic campaigner from the Canary Islands, leading the group, the sailors benefited from his expertise and enthusiasm during the week of training.
The five days of the clinic offered diverse conditions, with heavy winds dominating and a mix of chop and swell on the waves. The first two days focused on improving speed in various scenarios—downwind, upwind, and reaching—allowing sailors to sharpen their performance in challenging conditions.
A Blend of Theory and Practice:
Each morning began with a detailed briefing, including video analysis of the previous day's sessions. This visual feedback, combined with Teun's and Leo's explanations, made it easier for sailors to grasp concepts and apply corrections effectively. The theoretical sessions delved into essential topics, such as mastering the starting line, adapting to current and wind, and strategizing based on the race committee and pin positions.
Fun and Competitive Racing:
The final day of the clinic was all about racing and speed. Both the Optimists and ILCAs enjoyed a mini-championship with points awarded for each race, and a prize awaited the winner! The Optimists participated in a variety of race formats, including downwind sprints, classic races, and SailGP-inspired challenges. The ILCA sailors had classic races filled with excitement, focusing on understanding the wind and pushing themselves through friendly competition.
Conclusion:
The New Year's Clinic in Lanzarote offered a perfect combination of excellent conditions, tailored coaching, and a fun learning environment. With the guidance of dedicated coaches like Teun and Leo, sailors not only improved their skills but also forged memories and friendships that will last a lifetime. At DinghyCoach, the passion for sailing continues to inspire young sailors to reach new heights and set sail toward their dreams.