What's Happening?
The WASZP Class and the Federazione Italiana Vela (FIV) have announced that the WASZP Games 2027 will be held at Lake Garda, Italy. This event marks a return to the venue where the first WASZP Games took place in 2017, coinciding with the 10th anniversary
of the class. Scheduled for a window commencing in late June 2027, the event is expected to attract over 300 sailors, making it potentially the largest dinghy foiling event ever staged. The competition will be delivered in two distinct blocks: Block One, from June 27 to July 1, will feature dedicated championships for Junior (5.8 & 6.9) and Masters sailors, including separate fleet racing and social events. Block Two, from July 2 to July 7, will host Open Championship racing across multiple formats for the 7.5 and 8.2 fleets, culminating in the crowning of the 2027 WASZP Games Champions. The event will be hosted by FIV in collaboration with Consorzio Garda Trentino Vela, a consortium of local sailing clubs.
Why It's Important?
The return of the WASZP Games to Lake Garda, a renowned foiling venue, signifies the continued growth and popularity of dinghy foiling as a competitive sport. Anticipating over 300 sailors, this event will set a new benchmark for participation in dinghy foiling, highlighting its increasing global appeal across more than 30 countries where WASZPs are sailed. For the Federazione Italiana Vela, hosting this event in their centenary year (FIV was founded in 1927) is a source of great pride and a showcase of Italy's capability to host major international sailing events. It underscores FIV's commitment to new generations, innovation, and foiling, aligning with their youth development programs. The event will also provide a significant economic boost to the Lake Garda region through sports tourism, attracting participants, support teams, and spectators, thereby benefiting local businesses and the hospitality sector.
What's Next?
Further announcements regarding the WASZP Games 2027, including the opening of the Priority List registration, are expected to follow shortly. The organizers, WASZP Class and Federazione Italiana Vela, will continue their collaboration with Consorzio Garda Trentino Vela to finalize logistical and operational details for the event. This will involve detailed planning for the two distinct competition blocks, ensuring optimal racing conditions and a comprehensive event experience for all participants. The focus will also be on promoting the event globally to ensure maximum participation and media coverage. The success of the 2027 Games will likely influence future decisions regarding host venues and the format of subsequent WASZP Games, further solidifying the class's position in the international sailing community.
Beyond the Headlines
The WASZP Games 2027 at Lake Garda represents more than just a sailing competition; it embodies the evolution of watersports towards faster, more dynamic, and technologically advanced disciplines like foiling. The event's structure, with dedicated championships for Junior and Masters sailors, reflects a strategic effort to foster participation across different age groups and skill levels, ensuring the long-term sustainability and growth of the class. This inclusive approach helps in nurturing young talent while also retaining experienced sailors within the community. The collaboration between the WASZP Class and FIV, particularly in FIV's centenary year, highlights the importance of strong partnerships between class associations and national federations in advancing sports. Furthermore, the choice of Lake Garda, known for its ideal foiling conditions, reinforces the emphasis on providing a world-class competitive environment, which is crucial for pushing the boundaries of performance and innovation in dinghy foiling.
