2025 iQFOiL World Championships in Aarhus - Day 2
by iQFOiL Communications 8 Jul 05:07 NZST
4-11 July 2025
Day 2 of the iQFOiL World Championship in Aarhus tested the patience of sailors, coaches, and the Race Committee alike, as the wind refused to settle across the bay.
After several hours of hopeful waiting on the water - marked by a series of passing rain showers and inconsistent gusts - the call was finally made to abandon racing for the day.
The Men's Yellow and Blue fleets had been sent out with the goal of completing slalom heats, with each fleet scheduled to run three. But the breeze never stabilized enough to allow for fair racing. "Today the Race Committee was 'over early' and we had to send the athletes back ashore," said without ever losing her sense of humor Principal Race Officer Ewa Jodlowska, summing up a day of optimism and watchful patience.
Despite the lack of racing, the mood at the Aarhus International Sailing Center remained upbeat. The world-class venue proved to be a real asset in challenging conditions, offering shelter, space, and comfort for over 200 competitors and their teams. Sailors took the opportunity to debrief with coaches, recover, and enjoy the camaraderie that defines the iQFOiL community. Along with that spirit, tonight a special dinner for the coached will be held in the Sailors lounge at the International Sailing Center.
With no races completed today, the overall rankings remain unchanged from Day 1. Dutchman 2024 Olympic Bronze Medalist Luuc van Opzeeland (NED 55) leads the Men's fleet, followed closely by fellow countryman and 2020 Olympic Champion Kiran Badloe (NED 9) and Tom Arnoux (FRA 152). In the Women's fleet, Marta Maggetti (ITA 97) holds the lead ahead of Sharon Kantor (ISR 390) and Tamar Steinberg (ISR 50).
Looking ahead, the forecast suggests a return of better wind conditions, and the Race Committee remains ready to make the most of the rest of the week. With high-level competition and world titles on the line, the sailors are eager to get back on the water and continue the battle for the 2025 iQFOiL World Championship.