Excellent results for Royal Malta Yacht Club Sailing School
The Yachting Malta Birżebbuġa International Regatta, held between 7 and 10 February, delivered four days of competitive racing characterised by varied and demanding conditions. Hosted in the waters outside Freeport Harbour, the race area—positioned near the oil tanking zone and adjacent fish farms—challenged sailors with a predominantly westerly airflow that generated steep, choppy waves throughout the event.
In addition to the sea state, competitors contended with a persistent shoreline current, placing a premium on tactical acuity, starting-line judgement, and downwind lane management. The regatta was professionally managed and overseen by both local and international juries, ensuring fair play and maintaining the highest safety standards across all fleets.
The opening day began with a steady 12-knot westerly breeze, allowing both the ILCA and Optimist fleets to complete two races before the wind eased later in the afternoon.
Day two saw stable westerly winds exceeding 12 knots, enabling the Race Committee to deliver a full programme, including a catch-up race—an important step in building a robust series.
On day three, all sailors launched into significantly increased wind strengths of 25–27 knots. Following one ILCA race, the fleet was called ashore on safety grounds, with racing subsequently suspended.
The regatta concluded under strong but manageable 15–20 knot conditions. The Optimist fleet completed three races, mirrored by three races for the ILCA classes, bringing the event to a fittingly competitive close.
Despite the fluctuating breeze range—from light-air phases to heavy-weather sailing—the regatta achieved near-complete race quotas, with 11 races completed for the ILCA classes and 10 races for the Optimist fleet. The wide wind spectrum demanded adaptability, physical endurance, and consistently sharp boat-handling from all participants.
Photo Credit: Pav Ellull & Crispin Gauci Peresso
Royal Malta Yacht Club Performance
Sailors from the RMYC Sailing School demonstrated determination, resilience, and commendable sportsmanship across the four-day series. The team’s performance translated into several standout results:
- ILCA 7 – 1st Place: Matthew Flores
- ILCA 6 – 1st Overall: Jonas Micallef
- ILCA 6 – 3rd Overall & 🥇 1st Girl: Katrina Micallef
- ILCA 4 – 2nd Girl: Samantha Axisa
- Optimist Cadet – 2nd Place: Jari Schaefer Dorn
Although there were no podium finishes in the overall Optimist Senior fleet, all delivered a strong and consistent performance with Ethan Kodjaazliev securing a 4th place overall, narrowly missing out on podium positions.
In the Optimist Novice fleet George Podesta finished 4th overall, showing impressive progress in a very short period of time. He narrowly missed out on a medal, and despite two over-the-line starts due to inexperience in strong current conditions, his performance highlighted strong potential and rapid development.
Coaching Support
The team’s achievements were made possible through the dedicated support of the Royal Malta Yacht Club coaching group. Head Coach Ruya Cakmakli led the Optimist fleet, Neus Garcia Perez guided the Novice fleet, while Karlis Junkers, assisted by Tomek Vaccaro, managed the ILCA fleets.
Their structured preparation, detailed race analysis, and consistent on-water support played a key role in helping the sailors navigate the challenging conditions throughout the regatta.
Acknowledgements
The Royal Malta Yacht Club extends its sincere appreciation to Birżebbuġa Sailing Club and Yachting Malta Ltd for organising and delivering a great regatta.
Congratulations to all participating athletes for their hard work, focus, and unwavering commitment on and off the water.