France hosts Optimist European Championships
In competition with England, Switzerland and Malta, France was finally chosen this weekend at the World Class Championships in Thailand. In 2019, it will be 34 years since France had organised this championship.
The last one was in 1985 by the Brest Regatta Company. "It's a typically Anglo-Saxon organization and there was a lack of will on the part of France to organize this championship" explains Olivier Latin, Sports Director of the Nautical Centre.
For its bid, the Nautical Centre was able to count on the support of the FFV Sailing and its president Mr Nicolas Hénard, its vice-president Mr Henri Bacchini, the League of Brittany, the CDVs of Brittany as well as the Crozon town hall.
Crozon is therefore preparing to receive, in 2019, 300 participants from 40 countries and 4 continents.
"Five criteria that make the club strong have been decisive for the qualification of the nautical centre:
- a powerless lake and ideal wind conditions for the regatta
- a long experience in the organization of international competitions
- a superb natural environment with the peninsula
- quality accommodation
- an enthusiastic volunteer team with more than 150 potential people" olivier Latin explains.
Enhancing the value of the Crozon peninsula
The Nautical Centre does not intend to carry out any special facilities, already used to hosting international events. This was already the case in 2015, with the organisation of the Flying Fifteen World Championship. "There will nevertheless be a lot of work to do to meet the specifications given by IODA (International Optimist Association), such as the geolocation of optimists, videos... We will also work in partnership with the city's holiday homes to be able to accommodate and feed everyone... Two years will not be too long to organize everything!" says Olivier.
At the territorial level, it is also an opportunity to give visibility to the Crozon peninsula, which is home to the 7 e most beautiful beach in Europe the Virgin Island.
"We're very proud, we didn't believe it too much! We were in the final four with Malta and we are really happy to host this competition. We have worked hard on communication to host this event" concludes Olivier Lantin.
Some dates to remember
In 2017: Optiworld in Thailand / European Optimist in Bourgas
In 2018: Optiworld in Cyprus / European Optimist in Sheveningem
In 2019: Optiworld in Antigua / European Optimist in Morgat!
