FIJI Yachting Association was more than happy with the Oceania Sailing Championship and the Emerging Nations Programs which concluded yesterday in Suva.
President Shayne Brodie said it was a huge achievement for the sport to be noticed on the international scene.
“What makes it even more special is that it was held in Fiji. Everyone in the Fiji team improved their performance so it was pleasing to know we have come far in our development,” Brodie said.
“In the optimist category alone we had 19 sailors taking part which was a big plus for us. For some of them it was the first time taking part in a big event like this. In the laser 4.7 we had one sailor and in the laser we had four sailors taking part.
Brodie added Fiji’d biggest obstacle in improving the sport was the lack of coaches.
“As for us we don’t have any coach so it does become a hindrance. Our main focus going forward is to bridge the gap between older sailors and young ones,” he said.
Alongside the Oceania Championship, the International Sailing Federation ran coaching clinics. A race management course with New Zealand expert Richard Brown also helped the young sailors.
ISAF also aided in proving Fiji to add 20 new sailing boats to its fleet.
