The 2025 ILCA 6 Youth World Championships wrapped up in spectacular style at Cabrillo Beach, Los Angeles, with over 220 of the world’s top youth sailors battling it out across 12 races in varied conditions. Greece’s Hermione Ghicas and Italy’s Alessandro Cirinei claimed the top spots in the girls’ and boys’ fleets, respectively, following a thrilling final day of racing.
Australian Sailors at the event:
Jasper Stay was top Aussie in 26th. Luke Carrick was 67th and Tom Fader 77th.
Sara Bruce won the Women’s Silver Fleet and was 51st overall
The final day of the 2025 ILCA 6 Youth World Championships delivered everything youth sailing is known for — light breezes, tactical challenges, and ultimately, world-class racing. Held at Cabrillo Beach in San Pedro, Los Angeles, the regatta saw an international field of elite under-19 sailors compete over six days in the ILCA 6 (formerly Laser Radial) class.
Early on the final day, sailors were met with shifty 4–6 knot breezes. After a brief postponement, the classic California sea breeze kicked in, building to 12 knots and offering perfect conditions to close out the championship.
In the girls’ fleet, reigning European Champion Hermione Ghicas (GRE) dominated with consistency, winning three races and never falling far off the pace. She finished with just 32 points, ahead of Alina Shapovalova (UKR) in second and Feline Van Ede (NED) in third. Chloe Turner (NZL) impressed by taking the U17 girls title, finishing 13th overall.
The boys’ fleet saw Alessandro Cirinei (ITA) claim his second major title of the year, following his win at the Men’s Worlds in Kiel. His dominant qualifying series gave him enough of a cushion to withstand a tough final day, ultimately finishing with 92 points. Josip Tafra (CRO) and Joaquin Galvan (ARG) rounded out the top three. The U17 boys title went to Alexander Hartsink (NED), who also finished an incredible 6th overall.
The event showcased the depth and global reach of youth sailing. Final podiums featured athletes from Europe, South America, Asia, and Oceania, proving the international appeal and competitiveness of the ILCA class.
A full 12-race series was completed for most fleets, thanks to race management and support of the Cabrillo Beach Yacht Club, volunteers, and ILCA officials. The event was hailed as a huge success and a key stepping stone for many sailors with Olympic aspirations.
With world-class talent, diverse representation, and tight racing, the 2025 ILCA 6 Youth Worlds delivered a memorable experience and confirmed that the future of sailing is in excellent hands.
Official event website: https://2025ilca6youth.ilca-worlds.org/.
Interviews, videos, and pictures capturing the live action were shared daily across ILCA’s social media channels. We invite you to revisit the coverage and explore the highlights by following and subscribing to ILCA’s platforms — a great way to experience the excitement all over again:
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