The ILCA 4 World Championship has come to an end, marking a determined showing by a young team of sailors – Samantha Axisa, Tom Ellul and Kaine Muscat representing the Royal Malta Yacht Club Sailing School.
Competing against some of the best youth sailors in the world, the Maltese team delivered solid performances in what was a highly competitive event which in 2028 will be hosting the Olympic Games events.
Held over six days with a full series of 12 races, the championship featured excellent wind conditions. Daily seabreezes of 12 to 16 knots provided a great mix of tactical and physical challenges, allowing the race committee to deliver a world-class event.
The Maltese Team, who were all competing for the first time at the ILCA 4 World Championship saw fifteen year old Tom Ellul qualify for the Gold Fleet where he achieved a 64th place overall and 27th place in the U16 division.
Fourteen year old Kaine Muscat, finished Finished 84th overall in the Silver Fleet and 35th in the U16 division.
Fourteen year old Samantha Axisa finished 81st in the girls’ fleet, and 28th in the U16 division.
“Our sailors — Sam, Tom and Kaine — were among the youngest in the fleet, but they showed great determination and spirit throughout the championship, holding their own in a highly competitive international field.” Commented Club Commodore Mark Napier.
A special mention goes to Adele Ramm Ericsson, representing Sweden, who placed 7th overall in the girls’ fleet. Adele began her sailing journey at the Royal Malta Yacht Club, forming part of the very first Optimist Racing Team. Starting in the Bugs and RS Vision classes, Adele progressed through the Royal Malta Yacht Club’s Sailing School Learn to Sail programme before moving into racing — a journey that has now brought her success on the world stage.
“We are incredibly proud to see one of our former students excel at this level — a true reflection of the dedication of our coaching team and the foundations laid at our sailing school” remarked Club Commodore Mark Napier.
Whilst the ILCA 4 commitments have now drawn to a close, the RMYC Sailing School will be represented by Katrina Micallef who will be the only Maltese sailor racing in the ILCA 6 World Championships between the 28th July and the 4th August. A total of 222 sailors, representing 39 countries are expected to compete.