2023 Africans Officially Opens in Morocco

The 2023 Optimist African Championship has officially opened in M’diq, Morocco.  The event is hosted by the Royal M’diq Yacht Club and is taking place from May 2 to 9^th.

The largest Optimist African Championship for many years, particularly since the pandemic forced the cancellation of the event for two years.  Activity is once again on the rise and there is lots of interest not only from the African nations but also from many international countries to attend the event. A total of 89 sailors from ANG, EGY, LBA, MRI, MAR, MOZ, SEY, TAN, and TUN will be vying for the African Championship Title, along with AUS, BRA, CAN, FRA, HKG, LAT, ESP, and UAE that have travelled a great distance to take part in this event. 

The event has officially opened with the parade of nations through the center of town as the focal point of the ceremonies accompanied by several marching bands before a huge crowd of people watching and cheering them on.

Ajay Narang, VP Africa, Asia and Oceania officially opened the championship with the official raising of the IODA Flag at the end of the festivities.

 Here is an excerpt from his welcoming message:

“IODA is extremely pleased that so many sailors will experience the competition together here in M’Diq.  A phenomenal week of sailing awaits, and it is my hope that all participants will go home with new friends and new energy to promote our great sport of sailing.  Warm welcome to all!

A huge thank you to the Organising Committee here in Morocco and their large group of committed volunteers who have dedicated many hours to the success of this championship for the Optimist sailors.

Special thanks to the Prefecture M'diq Fnideq and to the Ministere de l'Education Nationale for their support and to the important sponsors Marina Marsa Maroc, Foramag-Motul, and Tangermed for making this championship possible.”

So far, there has been several days of race management training, measurement of boats and equipment, and training on the water in preparation for the championship.  

The racing has begun with two days of fleet racing in the Qualification Series before a break to host the 2024 Optimist African Team Racing Championship, a highlight for many teams at the event.  It is followed by another two days of fleet racing in the final series before the 2023 Optimist African Champion can be crowned.

To follow all the action of the 2023 African Championship, go to the microsite here.

To view the amazing photographs from Matias Capizzano who is covering the event go to his portal on the microsite home page at the link here.

For all the up-to-date results, go here.

You can also follow the event using your smart phone wherever you are by downloading the IODA APP for free at the Apple Store or Google Play.