The oldest video footage from Kieler Woche - Kiel Week in the 60s and early 70s
by Magnus Smith 15 Jun 16:00 UTC
The O-Jolle or Olympic MonoType dinghy was a narrow, heavy but successful class used in the 1936 Games © Henshall Archive
It's less than a week to go to Kiel Week 2025. Therefore, in our series of articles looking back in time through our video archive, we visit Germany. Kieler Woche is a crucial event on the world circuit, and here we look back at the 60s and early 70s.
The olest video we could find was from 1961 and shows the Star, Dragon, and larger yachts.
The Finn and Dragon are shown in 1962.
You may have to open this second 1962 video in a new tab, depending on where you live. Whilst this is narrated in German, non-speakers will still enjoy seeing the battle of the Star masts - which will give way first?! Dragons are also shown, and even part of the prize-giving.
Video from 1966 features the Star and Flying Dutchman classes.
1967 shows Dragon class and larger yachts.
Now we get the Tornado shown too - in 1968 (along with Star class and yachts).
The first of two from 1969, this one shows Flying Dutchman, Star, and larger yachts.
And now the Tempest - not many keelboats had a trapeze! This 1969 video also has Dragon, Finn, Star, and FD.
Finally, we end with a peek at the next decade, with Finn class in 1971/72 (exact year unknown - any guesses?).
What of the rest?
Do you know the location of any 50s or 80s Kiel videos? Heard about an old reel of cine film? Dig out that old VHS tape in the loft!
We would love to share your findings with sailors. You can submit video links for immediate review.
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