Bermuda Optimist Sailors Set for World Championship Challenge in Slovenia
The Bermuda Optimist Dinghy Association, BODA, is proud to announce the five young sailors who will represent the island at the 2025 Optimist World Championship in Portorož, Slovenia, from June 26th to July 6th.
This year’s prestigious event will feature over 250 sailors from around the world, and Bermuda’s representatives are eager to compete amongst the best.
The Bermuda Team consists of Emma Brown and Harry Brown from the Royal Hamilton Amateur Dinghy Club, and Thomas McBain, Heath Meyers, and Jesse Savage from the Royal Bermuda Yacht Club. They will be coached by Pablo Weber, with David Brown serving as Team Leader.
The team has successfully completed an intensive training programme both in Bermuda and overseas, including competing at the JK Pirat Portorož Easter Regatta in April to familiarise themselves with the World Championship venue and conditions. BODA President Mark Soares praised the dedication, stating, “Under the expert guidance of National Coach Pablo Weber, our athletes are prepared not just to compete but to excel.”
Looking forward to meeting sailors from around the world, Emma Brown shared, “Making friends and seeing how different peoples’ lives are.” Thomas McBain echoed this, adding, “I’m looking forward to making new friends and learning from the better sailors.” Optimist sailing has clearly shaped them; Emma noted increased confidence and resilience, while Harry mentioned becoming “more competitive and more confident.” A shocked 10-year-old Heath Meyers, who had just begun sailing, “could not have even imagined it.”
