Sri Lanka to Host 2026 IODA Asian and Oceania Optimist Sailing Championship

Sri Lanka is set to host the 12th IODA Asian and Oceania Under-15 Sailing Championship from December 12 to 19, 2026, at Colombo Port City.

The international competition, organised jointly by the International Optimist Dinghy Association (IODA) and the Sri Lanka Sailing Association, will bring together approximately 130 young sailors from 20 countries.

A media briefing on the championship was held at Colombo Port City on November 2, where organisers outlined preparations for the event.

The championship is regarded as one of the leading international sailing competitions for sailors under the age of 15. Countries expected to participate include Argentina, Brazil, the Czech Republic, France and the United States.

The Sri Lanka Sailing Association will oversee the organisation and operational arrangements for the competition.

Sri Lanka Sailing Association President Lalin Jeerasinghe, Secretary Malina Awan and Operations Officer Sarath Kuragama addressed the media briefing.