Singapore Youth Olympic Festival - Overall
by Icarus Sailing Media 2 Jun 2014 10:30 UTC
31 May - 1 June 2014
Welcome back to Singapore and the decisive final day of the 3rd Youth Olympic Festival. This prestigious event has evolved from the heart of the Olympic Spirit and inspires many Singaporeans to take up sports. The young sailing stars were gathered again today at Singapore's National Sailing center to compete in one of the nation's most successful sports, with numerous titles secured in recent history.
Sailing is a unique sport that combines stamina, physical & mental toughness and strategic thinking. By being close and exposed to nature's elements - water, wind and sun - young sailors develop confidence and good discipline, as well as learning to respect the elements and fellow competitors. At the same time, sailors are totally free and independent, in control of their decisions around the race track, and continually gaining knowledge and experience.
Back to the race track, where the weather conditions changed dramatically, with clouds bringing gusty winds and rain. The 3-person Laser Bahia and one-person Laser Radial were up racing first, but as the clouds passed the wind decreased and up went the postponement flag. Clear skies took over, but still no wind. So with no racing imminent, sailors took the opportunity to relax and spend time with their fellow competitors, chat about the racing and meet new friends. Developing friendship is a key objective of the Youth Olympic Festival, so despite disappointment with the lack of wind, a great opportunity for Singapore's best young sailors to share time together. A return of cloudy skies brought rain, and fortunately wind– so racing was back on. The Laser Radial, Byte CII and RS:One were soon up on the race track. But the cloudy and wet weather moved swiftly, and soon the wind dropped again, leaving just the RS5.5 fleet racing. In the tricky conditions, the Race Committee struggled to get racing underway, and it was impossible to complete the planned schedule.
The Singapore Youth Olympic Festival wrapped up with a typically impressive and glamorous Medal & Closing ceremony, showcasing a real flavor of Singapore's spirit and culture. The winners received their medals and prizes to thunderous applause from fellow competitors, officials and fans. Another fantastic event and many special memories for the sailors.