News

ILCA National Championships 2026

Published Wed 27 May 2026

ILCA National Championships 2026

Club Mykonos, Langebaan was the venue for the 2026 ILCA National Championships held over the weekend of 30 April to 3 May 2026

It attracted the biggest ILCA 6 fleet that we have had in many years. It was extremely competitive with 2nd, 3rd and 4th positions all tied with equal points at the end of the regatta.

The attendance at this event was nearly 60 boats. Entrants included two international competitors and the current Finn National Champion, the current Dabchick National Champion and a previous multiple 29’er National Champion.

Three races were held on day 1, in a fresh westerly. This wind kicked up a steep chop, making upwind sailing technical but allowed for good surfing on the downwinds. Three races were completed. In the ILCA 6 class (29 boats), Blake Madel dominated, ahead of Jacques Dugas and Noah Clulow. In ILCA 7 (13 boats), Alistair Keytel had the lead, just a point ahead of Georgou Divaris, with Cameron Clark 3rd. ILCA 4 also had 13 boats. Joshua Keytel took all 3 wins, to be ahead of Nathan McCombe and Olivia Purchase.

Day 2 had similar conditions and a further three races could be completed. In the ILCA 6 fleet, Blake did enough to be able to retain his lead. Behind, it was a fight for the remaining podium positions. Aaron Ward had a good day coming into medal contention, together with Noah and Jacques. At the end of the day, all three were tied on points, with Aaron in 2nd place and Noah in 3rd place according to Sailing’s tie break system. In the ILCA 7 fleet, Georgou had overtaken Alistair for the lead. Whilst in the ILCA 4 fleet, Joshua Keytel continued his dominance in this class. Nathan and Olivia continued their battle, but Nathan had the edge to keep the positions the same.

Day 3 was different – a thick fog over the lagoon prevented sailing at the early starting time posted. When the fog eventually lifted, there was still insufficient wind for racing. Eventually, further racing had to be cancelled and the positions after the second day were final.

The trophy winners were:
• ILCA 7 – Georgou Divaris (he is also the current Finn National Champion – this is the first time ever that someone has held both titles simultaneously)
• ILCA 6 and 1st Youth – Blake Madel (also WC Regional Champion)
• ILCA 6 Lady – Helen Janse van Vuuren
• ILCA 6 1st Youth Lady – Daniela Cantarelli
• ILCA 4 and 1st Youth – Joshua Keytel (also WC Regional Champion)
• ILCA 4 Lady – Olivia Purchase

We’d like to thank our sponsors for partnering with us and supporting this wonderful event.