If you read my last update, Summer Break - No Time to Rest, you know the first half of my summer was packed. But the second half somehow took things to a whole new level.
First, I sailedthe Olympic Classes Regatta (OCR) in Long Beach. I had a short breather—just enough time to rinse the salt off my gear—before heading up the coast to compete in the ILCA4 Youth World Championships at Cabrillo Beach. Then, three days later, I was back on the start line for the ILCA 6 Youth World Championships.
To say I’m feeling the effects of racing three major international regattas in such a short span is an understatement. I’m physically drained, mentally tired, and emotionally complete. And even though it might’ve been more strategic to focus on just one event, the opportunity to gain this much high-level experience in one summer was too good to pass up.
The Olympic Classes Regatta (OCR)
OCR was my first time racing side-by-side with some of the world’s best sailors—and the learning curve was steep in the best possible way. Watching how they handled pressure, made decisions, and stayed fast across the course was like a live masterclass in performance sailing. I was especially happy with my ability to consistently nail good starts, hold lanes, and apply high-level technique I’ve been working on all year. I also had the chance to meet and learn from a two-time European Champion, who shared a few key tips and encouraged me to keep pushing. Those small moments of connection can make a big difference.
It gave me a chance to test myself against top international talent and apply big-fleet tactics that don’t come up in smaller events. While I’ve raced in the ILCA 4 all season, moving up to the ILCA 6 in this regatta pushed me physically and mentally—which was exactly what I wanted.
Youth Worlds
Switching back to the ILCA 4 (f.k.a. Laser 4.7) felt familiar but also highlighted the contrast in physical demand and technique. At Cabrillo, I kept my momentum with solid starts and strong positioning.
Qualifying for the Gold Fleet was a huge confidence boost.
The short turnaround between the ILCA 4 and ILCA 6 events meant I was still in regatta mode, but the fatigue was starting to creep in.
By the time the ILCA 6 Youth Worlds began, I was running on fumes, with some fatigue after the ILCA4 Worlds and little time to rest. The conditions brought big breezes, and while my speed on the reaches and downwind legs improved dramatically, I struggled on the upwind. That was a clear sign that I needed to level up my hiking fitness—and I will.
Still, competing at Youth Worlds was a highlight. I know of only one other female sailor this year who raced both ILCA 4 and ILCA 6 worlds, and I’m proud of how I handled that challenge. Every race, every leg, every start added another layer of experience that I’ll carry with me.
Looking Ahead
This summer gave me more than just results. It gave me memories, lessons, technical growth, and a whole new gear to train toward. I’m excited to carry all of that into the next 12 months as I begin preparing for next year’s ILCA 6 Youth World Championships—which, by the way, will be held in Aarhus, Denmark, on the · 11th to the 19th of August 2026.
But first: a much-needed break. Time to rest, recharge, and recover—just in time for school to start.
Thanks for following along, and thank you to Cabrillo Beach Yacht Club for running a great World Championship Regatta.
—Paloma
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