The 2018 Optimist North American Championship took place on 24 June - 1 July, in Puerto Vallarta, Mexico. The AIODA team consisted of NSW sailors Bridget Conrad, Joshua Whitten, Jono Tuite and SA sailor Myles Wilson, and was coached by Sam Mackay. The location for the regatta was spectacular and the set up very convenient, with the team and families staying at the same resort, only meters away from the Vallarta Yacht Club and the rigging area. The club's volunteers were extremely helpful and the event ran very smoothly. 

The sea breeze didn't come in until the afternoon and racing had to be completed before afternoon storms rolled in, only proving a limited window for racing. This is why the regatta was limited to 150 sailors, so racing could be done in two fleets. The Australians sailed well and only narrowly missed making the Gold Fleet. In the Silver Fleet, Jono came 5th, only 3 points from 3rd place, Joshua finished 14th, Bridget 21st and Myles 27th. All sailors came away with great sailing experience and plan to build on this either in the Opti or their next class. 

As always, there was more to the regatta than sailing and the team enjoyed the Mexican culture and food, meeting sailors from many countries and hanging out before and after racing (Uno in the hotel room a great way to kill time waiting for the wind, resort pool with crocodile waterslides afterwards). The families had the option to go on the well-appointed spectator boat, explore the area or relax at the resort. The Opening and Closing Ceremonies showcased the vibrant Mexican culture and the end of regatta gear trading proved a memorable experience for all sailors. 

Thank you to AIODA for this amazing opportunity, it was an event to remember.

Team Manager, Virpi Tuite