Thailand’s Royal Varuna Yacht Club (RVYC) based in Chonburi province has been chosen as the host venue for the prestigious Optimist World Championship 2017. Home to Thailand’s first national championships over half a century ago and with bags of experience hosting major international regattas, RVYC was voted as the ideal sailing venue for next year’s IODA World Optimist event. The Optimist World Championship 2017 will take place 11 – July 21, 2017.
Located in secluded cove between Pattaya and Jomtien, the RVYC promises exhilarating and enjoyable races with prevailing south-westerly winds adding real excitement. Azure waters and plenty of sunshine are guaranteed for the international teams and young talented sailors.
RVYC Commodore, Tom Whitcraft is looking forward to adding to the club’s calendar of events. “We are extremely proud at RVYC to have the opportunity to host the Optimist World Championship 2017 and showcase Thailand as a great venue for International sailing events. We had our first Optimist World Championship here at RVYC back in 1979 and it is great that RVYC has chosen to be a venue again. With a year to go it is countdown to a great sailing event. We are really lucky in Thailand to have good weather for sailing all year round and more than our share of fair winds.â€
Aside from its location just a couple of hours from Bangkok, the RVYC facilities are second-to-none at the club with easy access for launching from a secluded beach and lawn area. Visiting sailors can enjoy the stunning setting with beautiful beaches and friendly local culture, plus an on-site clubhouse restaurant, sunset beach bar and salt-water pool, as well as accommodation.
Prior to the Optimist World Championship 2017, RVYC will be hosting a Summer Regatta 16 – 18 July, 2016; Eastern Seaboard Regatta 22 – 24 October, 2016; The Admiral’s Cup from 17 – 19 February, 2017; and a Test Event for the Optimist World Championship from 13 – 16 April, 2017 during Thailand’s Songkran water festival.
The event is expecting over 250 competing athletes coming from 60 counties worldwide creating a cosmopolitan international atmosphere at the RVYC and surrounding area.
Tom Whitcraft applauds the talents of the competitors. “Sailing is a great sport for all ages and skill levels from beginners to world-class competitors, but we are particularly proud to support our youth sailors.â€
For more information about the Royal Varuna Yacht Club and Optimist Worlds 2017 event, visit and www.optimistworlds2017.com.
