On 7 and 8 February, the XI Guíxols Cup Optimist 2026 was held in the waters of Sant Feliu de Guíxols, one of the key events in the winter calendar of the Optimist class. The regatta brought together young sailors from across the region in a competition marked by changing weather conditions and technical demands.
Club Nàutic Estartit was represented, as usual, by sailors Arlet Garcia Payet and Martí Montanyà Valle, who continue to gain experience in high-level competitions.
A challenging Saturday due to heavy swell
Saturday began with a moderate south-westerly (garbí) wind which, at first glance, seemed to offer good racing conditions. However, the state of the sea became the main challenge of the day. The well-formed swell made navigation difficult and racing particularly uncomfortable, testing the balance, technique and endurance of the participants.
In the end, only one race could be completed, as the conditions did not allow for safe and consistent continuation.
A contrasting Sunday: early calm and strong northerly winds
The second day started under very different conditions. The swell had decreased considerably and a light offshore breeze allowed the first race of the day to get underway. With a forecast drop in wind intensity, the race committee decided to shorten the course and finish at the gate to ensure the race’s validity.
After an hour of waiting on the water, the wind returned, this time from the north, with a steady 18 knots and gusts reaching up to 25. The new conditions once again increased the difficulty of the regatta. Our sailors attempted to complete the scheduled race, but were ultimately unable to finish and were instructed to return to port.
Learning and experience in a demanding regatta
Despite the challenging weather conditions, Arlet Garcia Payet and Martí Montanyà Valle approached the competition with determination and a positive attitude. Regattas of this kind, with variable and often tough conditions, are especially valuable in the development of young sailors, as they help them build adaptability, decision-making skills and the ability to manage pressure.
At Club Nàutic Estartit, we highly value their participation and the experience gained. The goal remains to improve race after race, consolidate learning and continue growing within the competitive circuit.
Final N2 regatta before the Catalonia Championship
The Guíxols Cup was the final regatta classified as N2 this season. Attention now turns to a very special event: the 2026 Catalonia Optimist Championship, which will be held over the weekends of 7–8 and 14–15 March on our home waters.
Club Nàutic Estartit will host this four-day championship, which will bring children from across the region to l’Estartit. Some participants will compete with the aim of qualifying for the Spanish Championship, raising the level and significance of the event even further.
With this event, we will bring the winter season to a close, reaffirming Club Nàutic Estartit’s commitment to youth sailing and the promotion of grassroots sport in our region.