Sandefjord, Norway proved to be a challenging yet beautiful host for the 2024 WASZP Games, as the fleet of 180 – a WASZP Games record, had to navigate the small islands and sail between cliffs and rocks of the fjord. 

“It was a completely unique venue of a small, beautiful island, that was absolutely stunning, one of the most breath-taking sailing venues I’ve ever been to.” James Parker-Mowbray, Performance Academy Manager. 

12 Performance Academy sailors from England, Scotland, Isle of Man, Germany & Italy were joined by coaches James Parker-Mowbray and Ross Harvey for 2 weeks in the municipality of Sandefjord, Norway, competing in both the WASZP Norwegian Nationals and the 2024 WASZP Games. 

The Norwegian Nationals was a perfect warm-up event for the WASZP Games, Day 1 proved to be a tough and long day on the water, waiting for enough breeze, as the sailors stuck it out for over 7 hours. Thankfully Day 2 provided better wind and was a great opportunity to become accustomed to the venue.  

After a a final day of training, rest and boat checks the main event was underway. Day 1 & 2 of the WASZP Games Qualifying series had light wind causing races to be in challenging marginal foiling conditions.  

Day 3 was split into two halves with sprint racing in morning. This featured league style short course racing where sailors qualified for series of small heat races, progressing through to semi-finals and the final. The afternoon saw long distance racing where all 180 boats started on a gate start, sailed the whole length of the fjord in some big winds and big waves, spectacularly finishing by ripping down wind through a finish line in front of club house.

“180 boats on a gate start was quite a spectacle” – James Parker-Mowbray

Day 4 and 5 showcased Gold and Silver traditional fleet racing in big wind and challenging breeze. After a testing qualifying series, the sailors progressed well towards end of week. Sam Whaley finished 5th in the world for the 8.2m rig, shooting up the leader board after qualifying. And Ben Anderson finished the event strong as 3rd best-placed male in the 6.9m rig.  

“It’s been a pleasure to support this group of sailors, many of which who developed and progressed massively throughout our time here, looking forward to more hard work with them over the winter and next year.” James Parker-Mowbray

We’re already looking forward to the WASZP Games 2025, which is being held at our base camp WPNSA, in Portland Dorset. Stay tuned for more information on camps clinics and support. Get in touch with our team to find out about how you can get involved: Contact Us