Mallorcan Marina Garau is third after the first day of the ILCA 4 Youth World Championship

The 2026 ILCA 4 Youth World Championships moved into championship mode today as the first races of the Qualifying Series were completed in Aarhus Bay, Denmark.

It is important to highlight that out of the 448 participants, 5 come from the following Balearic Islands clubs: Club Nàutic s’Arenal, Real Club Náutico de Palma and Club Nàutic Cala Gamba.

Following three busy opening days ashore, with registration, equipment inspection, the official Practice Race and yesterday’s Opening Ceremony, the sailors finally had their first chance to test themselves in racing conditions.

All six fleets completed two races each across the two race courses, bringing the total number of races completed on the opening day to 12. The girls are racing in two fleets, while the boys are divided into four fleets.

In addition, Mallorcan Marina Garau, from Club Nàutic s’Arenal, is third in the female category. After yesterday’s session, the young sailor will start with a 4-3 at today’s races.

The day offered good sailing conditions, with easterly winds and only limited current on the race courses. For the race management teams, one of the most positive signs was the discipline shown by the sailors on the start lines.

“It has been a really good day on the water. We had good easterly winds, fine racing conditions and the sailors showed great discipline on the start lines,” said Christian Lerche, Course Race Officer.

“With fleets this large, we were prepared for more general recalls and difficult starts, but the sailors handled the opening day very well. Completing two races for each of the six fleets is a very positive start to the championship,” said Kim Pedersen, Race Officer.

Back ashore, the large international fleet continued to bring life and energy to the venue. Around the boat park, sailors, coaches and volunteers filled the Aarhus International Sailing Center with a lively atmosphere, as the first day of racing added to the excitement already building around the championship.

The results took longer than usual to finalise due to the size of the fleet and the number of boats finishing close together. Race officials used written records, audio notes and video footage to carefully verify the finishing order and ensure accurate results for all sailors.

Racing will continue until Sunday, August 9th, the day when the new ILCA 4 Youth World winners will be crowned.