Dutch Youth Regatta 2025 – Day 1 Report (May 29)
New location, strong wind, warm welcome
The 2025 edition of the Dutch Youth Regatta kicked off today at its brand-new venue in Zeeland — and what a welcome we’ve received! The Roompot Marina is proving to be a fantastic host, combining excellent facilities with a beautiful backdrop on the shores of the Oosterschelde.
Today brought strong and steadily increasing winds — a real test for sailors right from the start. Some competitors were already struggling in the harbor, a sign of what was to come. With a delayed launch, teams had ample time to prepare both mentally and physically for the challenging conditions.
As the day progressed, the wind picked up further, reaching up to 20 knots by the afternoon. In the 29er fleet, only two races could be completed, as the strengthening breeze eventually forced the fleet to return to shore early. After day one, FRA 3425 (Alexandre Mostini & Raphaël Allain) and NED 3253 (Beerdluuk Spijkervet & Thomas Reyers) are tied at the top — a close battle already forming.
In the Optimist class, only one race was completed per fleet due to the increasing wind. In the yellow fleet, reigning Dutch Champion Ties de Ruiter took the win, while in the blue fleet it was Belgian sailor Maud de Bie who claimed victory. After just one race, the Optimist fleets were sent back to shore as conditions became too fierce to continue.
The RS Feva sailors also felt the full force of the weather, with many struggling to return to the harbor. Rescue boats had to redeploy to assist and safely guide the fleet back in — a clear reminder of how dynamic and demanding sailing can be.
On shore, however, the mood remained festive. Two ladies in traditional Zeeland dress crafted delicious boterbabbelaars, delighting sailors and spectators alike with this local treat. Children got creative at the arts & crafts station, and the Roompot mascot Koos was all smiles during a meet & greet with his young fans.
A challenging but exciting first day — and we’re only just getting started!
