Adelaide is setting sail for an exciting summer as the city has been chosen to host the Olympic Qualifying Sailing Championships, a pivotal event in the global sailing calendar. And it’s definitely one for the diary.
West Beach will transform into a bustling hub for the world’s top sailors, with three separate regattas scheduled across January and February.
More than 50 countries will be represented, and with 50,000 room bookings and an estimated $16 million injection into the local economy, the event is backed by the South Australian Tourism Commission and is set to be a major draw for both sailing enthusiasts and the general public.
The Adelaide Sailing Club, with Commodore Peter Royle at the helm, is proud to host this prestigious competition.
“It is a great honour for South Australia and the Adelaide Sailing Club that we have been chosen to host this exceptional competition. There will be significant interest from 50 countries watching to see who will qualify for the 2024 Paris Olympics,” he said.
“Then we also are lucky enough to hold the World Masters Championships which be a spectacle of 350 competing boats on the water plus visitors from across the world. We invite everyone to come and take a look.”
But it’s not just about the competition. For locals and visitors who may not typically follow sailing, the event presents a unique opportunity to be part of something special. The Adelaide Sailing Club is extending an open invitation to the public to enjoy the vibrant atmosphere from the comfort of their balcony and lawns.
Fuego by the Sea, the club’s onsite restaurant, is the perfect spot to soak in the spectacular view of hundreds of boats dotting the ocean. This is a chance to mingle with international visitors, enjoy a drink, and be part of a global sporting event right in your backyard.
The championships are expected to draw a large audience, including current Olympic Gold Medalist, Australian Matt Wearn, who will begin his medal defense. The events will kick off with the Australian and Oceanic Championships, featuring 250 sailors in a remarkable display of skill and competition.
Following the Olympic qualifier, the World Masters Championship will see another 350 sailors competing off West Beach. These back-to-back events are anticipated to generate significant economic benefits for Adelaide, contributing over $16 million to the local economy and bringing in more than 50,000 room nights.
This series of regattas is not only a boon for the local economy but also a major event for the South Australian Tourism Commission, as it’s the only Olympic qualifier of any sport to be held in South Australia for 2024. The event schedule is as follows:
- Australian and Oceania ILCA Championships from 1st to 8th January 2024.
- ILCA 7 World Championship from 24th to 31st January 2024.
- ILCA Masters World Championships from 2nd to 10th February 2024.
For more information, click here.
More News
