Tallinn to Host Zhik Nordic Youth Sailing Championship

This July, Estonia’s capital will take center stage in Nordic youth sailing as the 2025 Zhik Nordic Youth Sailing Championship comes to Haven Kakumäe, one of the Baltic Sea’s most modern harbors. Hosted by Tallinna Yacht Club (TJK), the weeklong regatta (July 21–26) will welcome around 300 sailors under age 19 from eight countries—making it the largest event of its kind ever held in Tallinn.

Young athletes from Estonia, Iceland, Denmark, Sweden, Norway, Finland, Lithuania, and Latvia will compete in five boat classes: Optimist, ILCA4, ILCA6, Zoom8, and 29er. With more than 300 additional coaches, parents, and fans expected, the championship promises to be both a high-caliber competition and a lively celebration of youth sailing.

Australian performance gear company Zhik returns as the title sponsor. “For us, sponsorship is about more than brand exposure,” said Johannes Polgar, Zhik’s representative. “We’re proud to support the next generation of sailors with meaningful engagement and innovation.”

To foster a true championship atmosphere, organizers will build a dedicated regatta village on shore, complete with live race coverage on large screens, entertainment, food services, and an opening and awards ceremony. Two race courses will be set just offshore, with excellent visibility from Kakumäe’s long breakwater.

For Estonia’s youth sailors, including Helen Pais and Helen Ausman—members of the country’s Olympic talent program—the chance to race internationally at home offers a crucial stepping stone toward future goals. “Competing at this level, in home waters, is an invaluable experience,” the duo shared in a joint statement.

While the Optimist fleet traditionally draws the most attention, this year’s high turnout in ILCA4 and ILCA6 classes reflects the growing momentum behind Olympic development pathways. The 29er class will also feature prominently, with three countries sending teams to test their skills in the fast double-handed skiff.

“This regatta is more than just a race—it’s the starting line for Olympic dreams,” said TJK Commodore Harri Mikk, noting that several past Estonian Olympians began their careers in the very classes racing this month.

Racing begins July 21. Spectators are encouraged to visit the regatta village, follow the action from shore, and cheer on the next generation of Nordic sailors.

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