Last week (14 - 20 July 2024), the scenic waters of Weymouth and Portland set the stage for the 13th ACO Musto Skiff World Championships, proudly sponsored by ACO for over a decade. The event showcased impressive sailing skills, strategy, and sportsmanship, bringing together top sailors from around the world who competed under changing weather conditions.

The championship kicked off with an exciting practice event that set high standards for the subsequent competitions. Throughout the week, the sailors' skills were tested through strategic decision-making, teamwork, and innovative techniques—key elements that reflect the core values of competitive sailing and embody the principles ACO stands for.

Mid-event, the competition intensified, with sailors demonstrating exceptional ability and determination. The sense of community among the participants was palpable, emphasizing the importance of camaraderie and collective spirit. Thanks to real-time GPS tracking by SailRacer, fans and spectators worldwide could follow the action live.

A special highlight on Friday was a coastal tour with ACO staff and guests, after which the team could experience the sailing action up close on the water. The sight of the active sailors highlighted the passion and appreciation for the sport and the water. Later that day another highlight was the gala dinner, enriched by guest speaker Pete Goss MBE.

As the championship neared its conclusion, the tension in the final races mounted. Despite challenging weather conditions shifting from clear skies to rain, the sailors' spirits remained high. On the final day, the fleet navigated through 11-14 knots, displaying remarkable resilience and mastery of their craft.

On Saturday at the close of the 13th ACO Musto Skiff World Championships, Sam Pascoe deservedly captured the World Champion title. Entering as the top favorite, he sailed flawlessly and dominated the competition. Joining him on the podium were Rob Richardson, who not only secured second place overall but also excelled as the first in the youth category, and Danny Boatman, who took third place.

The event not only celebrated the athletic achievements of the sailors but also highlighted ACO's commitment to water management and environmental sustainability. Iver Ahlmann, Managing Partner of the ACO Group, took the chance and joined two race days including the coastal tour with ACO staff and guests, using his own professional experience with Musto Skiff to provide our guests with detailed insights on how this sport is working and what the challenges and criteria are to win the race.

The ACO Musto Skiff World Championship 2024 was a testament to strategic excellence, innovation, and the relentless spirit of the sailing community. It underlines the synergy between the skills required in sailing and those needed for effective surface water management. Congratulations to all participants and stay tuned and follow us as we gear up for the 14th championships in Australia, Jan 2-10, 2025.

Find daily reports and more detailed info on the offical website: https://mustoskiff.com

More videos from the event here: https://www.youtube.com/@mustoskiff7351