Qingdao, China – With the 2025 ILCA World Championships on the horizon, sailors from 49 countries have arrived in Qingdao for registration, boat measurement, and for the official training. A steady breeze provided ideal conditions for familiarizing with the venue, as a diverse fleet of 237 boats prepares for competition.
Among the early arrivals there were two standout sailors— Charlotte Rose from the United States and Pavlos Kontides from Cyprus. Though they are at different stages of their sailing careers, both share a deep connection with this Olympic sailing city.
Charlotte Rose: Worlds Silver Medalist Eyes Los Angeles 2028
Charlotte Rose, the silver medalist of 2024 ILCA 6 Women’s World Championship, landed in Qingdao earlier to begin three days of training. This is her second time in China, and while she’s no stranger to international competition, Charlotte still sees Qingdao’s open sea as a fresh challenge.
“I trained on a river for four years during college, so adapting to ocean conditions here is a great opportunity for growth,” she said.
Charlotte is coached by Anna Tunnicliffe Tobias, the 2008 Olympic gold medalist in Qingdao. Her coach’s insight and experience offer a critical edge.“She gives me small tips that could make a big difference,” Charlotte shared.“This regatta is a stepping stone. I hope it lays the groundwork for a strong performance at the Los Angeles 2028 Olympics.”
Pavlos Kontides: Olympic Veteran Returns to Where It All Began
Cypriot sailing legend Pavlos Kontides is no stranger to Qingdao. He first sailed here in 2007 and returned the following year to compete in the 2008 Beijing Olympics, finishing 13th at just 18 years old. That Olympic campaign marked the beginning of his storied career.
Between 2013 and 2016, Pavlos competed in the Qingdao Sailing World Cup every year. Now, after completing his Paris 2024 journey, he’s back in Qingdao as part of his preparation for what will likely be his final Olympic appearance at Los Angeles 2028.
“I know this venue well,” said Pavlos.“But if you don’t respect the current and tidal changes here, you’ll be shocked. Qingdao demands your full attention.”
Venue Update: Training Races Begin, Automation Takes the Helm
With equipment measurement underway, practice racing also began today. Number of ILCA 6 sailors signed in for training on the ILCA 6 course. The wind at the start of racing averaged around 11 knots, peaking at 14 knots. Conditions were milder than the previous day, following a cold front and rain.
This year’s championship marks a new step forward in race management: the ILCA 6 course has deployed Sailfish’s automated floating mark system, a nod to the fully automated race concepts anticipated for the 2028 Los Angeles Olympics. The system reduces human workload and increases both efficiency and mark-setting precision.
During today’s first practice race, a general recall was issued due to a large number of premature starters. The second start went clean, and after rounding the full course, sailors returned to shore to conserve energy ahead of racing tomorrow. Winds eased from 9 to 6 knots by the end of the session.
On the ILCA 7 course, conditions were slightly lighter, with an average wind speed of 8 knots and a maximum of 9.5. All signs point to a well-prepared fleet and a venue ready to deliver a world-class event.
The official opening ceremony took place this evening at the International Conference Center of the Qingdao Olympic Sailing Center, with remarks from ILCA Chief Operating Officer Andrus Poksi. With final preparations completed, sailors are now resting and focusing on recovery— ready to meet the challenge of the first day of qualification racing tomorrow.