Ex-Optimists and the Olympics
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Over 60% the skippers of the Olympic boats in Athens were former Optimist sailors.

And over 40% had participated in IODA world and continental championships.

78% of the skipper medallists were former Optimist sailors and over 50% were former Optimist internationals

Child stars who "burn out" are a cliché of Hollywood and many sports.

Not in sailing!

Martin Billoch, Optimist World champion 1974, and
Santiago Lange. Both went on to the Olympics.